Safety Tips For Snow Removal

Snow blowers make snow removal easier and faster than it used to be, but safety risks remain. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports that more than 119,000 people are treated annually for injuries caused while using snow removal tools. Nearly 20,000 of those injuries are caused by snow throwers or blowers.

One of the factors blamed for these injuries is temperature. In freezing weather, people have a tendency to rush through chilly snow removal chores so they can get back into their cozy homes. When we rush, our focus isn’t on our task and we are at risk for preventable injuries. We have some tips to keep you safe from the injuries commonly associated with snow removal.

• Dress warmly. If your clothing protects you from the cold, you’ll be less tempted to rush through your snow clearing task, and more likely to focus on the job at hand.

• Practice safe lifting techniques. Instead of lifting large amounts of snow, use your shovel to push now out of the way. If you can’t avoid lifting a few shovelfuls, take small amounts of snow at a time. Don’t bend at the waist to lift; instead, bend and lift with your legs, not your back.

• Avoid twisting. When you throw snow over your shoulder or off to the side, the twisting motion puts stress on your back. Instead, walk to where you want to pile the snow.

• Don’t delay. If you clear snow early and often during a snowfall, you’ll be handling less snow at a time, and will avoid having to clear heavy packed snow.

• Take your time. Stop frequently to rest when you feel tired. If you do experience chest pain, shortness of breath, or other signs of a heart attack, seek immediate medical attention.

• Read and follow instructions. If you have a snow blower, do read the instructions so you are aware of safety warnings and keep your equipment in good repair.

• Don’t clear the snow blower while it’s running. If snow packs in the blower, stop the engine—it’s a good idea to unplug the machine too—and wait at least five seconds before you attempt to clear the chute. Use a solid object to remove wet snow or debris; don’t use your hands or feet.

• Stay with the blower. If you have to leave it unattended, turn off the engine.

• Be aware of the snow blower cord. People have injured themselves tripping over the cord of an electric snow blower. Make sure you know where the cord is in relation to your feet.

If you bundle up and follow these tips, you’ll safely keep your drive and sidewalks snow-free and benefit from a little winter exercise to boot.

Back pain from snow removal?

Summit Orthopedics is home to the area’s top spine specialists. Our back specialists diagnose spine problems and design custom treatment plans built on a conservative, non-surgical approach. Most patients find relief through treatments including guided injections, specialized physical therapy, biofeedback, exercise, activity modification, and medication. When conservative care does not relieve symptoms, we can discuss surgical options. Together with you, we will determine the right course of action.

Summit Orthopedics supports healthy communities

Community health flourishes when specialized orthopedic care is conveniently available close to home. Summit Orthopedics is proud of our fellowship-trained subspecialty teams offering the full spectrum of orthopedic expertise in bone, tendon, ligament, muscle, and joint conditions—in addition to our wellness, prevention, and rehabilitation services. We have the expertise to proactively improve fitness, evaluate discomfort, and deliver personalized treatment to quickly and safely return you to the lifestyle you love.

Start your journey to a healthier, more active self. Visit our Facebook page to learn about our wellness services and schedule a free wellness consultation online. Find your orthopedic expert, request an appointment online, or call us at (651) 968–5201 to schedule a consultation.

Summit has convenient locations across the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin. We have state-of-the-art centers for comprehensive orthopedic care in Eagan, MN, Plymouth, MN, Vadnais Heights, MN, and Woodbury, MN, as well as additional community clinics throughout the metro and southern Minnesota.

More resources for you

• Read the article How Muscle Injury Causes Neck And Back Pain
• Visit our Spine Exercise Library for options to help ease neck and back pain
• See Summit’s treatment options for neck, back, and spine care
• Check out additional information on Summit’s approach to spine care
• Tips To Avoid Frostbite in Icy Temperatures

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