When you first embark on winter in the snowy north, you may look upon those first flecks of snow with gleeful excitement. But, few stops to consider the real hardships of winter and the hidden dangers of snow shoveling.
It’s hard to think of shoveling as dangerous, especially when you’re out having fun. But each winter, many injuries caused by snow shovels induce permanent damage.
Here are a few of the dangers of shoveling snow and tips on using a shovel. Continue reading!
Physical Strain and Overexertion
Overexertion is a real risk when shoveling snow. The dangers of snow plowing include throwing out one’s back, straining muscles and joints, and even having a heart attack.
It needs to warm up before shoveling by stretching and doing a few basic exercises. You have to avoid excessive heavy shoveling lifting more than the body can handle. Wearing multiple layers of clothes is also an excellent way to track the temperature while shoveling.
Slips and Falls
As the ground may be slippery and covered in a layer of snow, it is easy for people to lose their footing and trip when getting rid of the buildup. People may also slip on icy patches that get covered up by the snow.
Wearing non-slip boots and gloves with a good grip is essential to reduce the danger of slipping and falling while shoveling snow. Also, proceed on each step, and taking frequent breaks to stretch your arms and legs can help too.
Cold Exposure and Hypothermia
Cold exposure occurs when the body cannot tolerate the intensifying cold temperatures, producing symptoms including shivering, fatigue, lack of coordination, confusion, and clumsiness. Hypothermia is when the body temperature drops to a low temperature and can lead to coma or death if untreated.
When removing snow, the cold conditions can add to these risk factors, making it even more difficult for the body to maintain its average temperature. If symptoms of cold exposure or hypothermia occur, seek medical attention immediately.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas that comes out of heaters and stoves that use gasoline, natural gas, propane, or kerosene as fuel. Carbon monoxide can become very dangerous when using these machines in a closed space, like a garage.
Even a few minutes of being in a room with a lot of carbon monoxide can cause headaches, sickness, and in the worst cases, death. Don’t shovel snow in garages; use machines in well-ventilated rooms to avoid getting sick from carbon monoxide.
Heart-Related Issues
This can lead to hypertension, chest pain, irregular heart rhythm, shortness of breath, and even heart attack or stroke. People should take the necessary precautions, such as warming up before snow shoveling and using proper technique.
Individuals with existing heart diseases should not shovel snow. Staying hydrated and listening to your body when shoveling snow is essential. Taking the proper precautions is vital to avoiding heart-related dangers when shoveling snow.
Keep These Snow Shoveling Tips Handy
Snow shoveling carries many risks, from strains, sprains, falls, and heart attacks. Always use proper protective and ergonomic techniques when shoveling snow to ensure safety and comfort.
If shoveling is too much, hire a professional snow removal to manage the task. Don’t risk your safety and health – take the necessary precautions and use common sense to stay safe!
Found this article helpful? Please browse through our other blog posts for more tips.
