Shoveling snow is a difficult and potentially dangerous task. By preparing properly and understanding the safest ways to shovel, you can avoid back injuries and make shoveling a little easier.
It’s also important to understand that shoveling isn’t for everyone. If you have a heart condition of any kind or have had a heart attack, then you should not shovel. It is also recommended that people who are physically inactive or who get little exercise refrain from shoveling. The stress that shoveling can put on your heart is very real, and sudden stress on the heart of an inactive person could cause a sudden and serious problem.
prepare properly
o Avoid caffeine and a large meal just before shoveling, both of which can increase stress on your heart.
o Dress warm: wear cotton socks, insulated and waterproof boots, and a warm hat that covers your ears. Also wear gloves that aren’t too bulky so you can get a good grip on the shovel.
o Carry a large water bottle with you outside which will help you remember to drink and make it more convenient as you won’t have snow trails inside your house when you want to go for a drink.
o Be sure to stretch and take a brisk 1-2 minute walk to get your heart racing. In fact, it will make shoveling easier.
Tips for shoveling snow
o Choose a plastic scoop instead of a metal scoop. Plastic paddles are lighter and therefore easier to use.
o Spray a silicone lubricant on the paddle blade. This will make the snow slide off and also prevent it from sticking.
o Don’t throw snow over your shoulder; the safest way to shovel is to push the snow away from you.
o Paddle safely by bending your legs slightly at the knee, letting your thigh muscles do most of the pushing and lifting work; this will reduce the strain on your heart and back.
o Use a shovel with a smaller blade. This will limit the weight of the snow that you will push and therefore limit your chances of getting injured.
o If you’re home during the beginning of a heavy snowfall, consider going outside to shovel after a few inches. Going out a few times to shovel can be inconvenient and cold, but in the end it will be easier and faster than shoveling many inches of heavy snow.
o The safest way to paddle to avoid injury is to always slightly bend your knees and gently lean forward.
o STOP PADDLING IMMEDIATELY IF YOU FEEL SLIGHTLY WEAK OR DIZZY OR IF YOU CAN’T CATCH YOUR BREATH.
after shoveling
o Be sure to rehydrate, especially if you didn’t drink enough fluids while paddling.
o Warm up with a protein-packed soup (such as chicken noodle soup or lentil soup with vegetables). Not only will you warm up quickly, but you will also quickly feel your energy level return to normal.
Follow these snow shoveling tips for easy and safe shoveling. If shoveling snow isn’t for you or you just don’t have the time or energy to do it, then consider hiring a snow removal service to do it for you.
