Ten Tips for Safe Snow Shoveling

December 22, 2009

While it may be a bit late this go around, I sent out this message to our e-mail distribution list this past Friday prior to the Blizzard of 2009 & we received a lot of positive feedback.   Hopefully, those who got the message took it to heart (or back) & avoided injury while moving piles of snow around.   While it may be a bit untimely this go around, I’m sure it won’t be the last time it snows, I mean Winter only officially began yesterday right?   So without further ado here are the Ten Tips: 

1. If you experience pain of any kind, stop immediately and seek assistance.

2. Choose a snow shovel that is right for you.  Be sure that your shovel has a curved handle, as this enables you to keep your back straighter when shoveling.  The length is correct when you can slightly bend your knees, flex your back 10 degrees or less and hold the shovel comfortably in your hands at the start of your shoveling stroke.  Sometimes a smaller blade is better than a larger blade.  Although a small blade can’t shovel as much, it avoids the risk of trying to pick up a too heavy pile of snow.

3. When possible push the snow, do not lift it.  Pushing puts far less strain on your body than lifting.

4. Be sure your muscles are warm before you start shoveling.  Cold, tight muscles are more likely to sprain or strain than warm, relaxed muscles.

5. When you grip the shovel, make sure your hands are at least 12 inches apart.  By creating distance between your hands, you increase your leverage and reduce the strain on your body.

6. Your shoveling technique is very important.  If you must lift snow, squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight.  Lift with your legs & do not bend at the waist.  Move your feet rather than twisting.

7. Never throw snow over your shoulder.

8. Remember that wet snow can be very heavy.  One full shovel load can weigh as much as 25 pounds.

9. Pace yourself by taking frequent breaks to gently stretch your back, arms and legs.

10. For those who are able bodied, its always worth remembering neighbors on your block who may not be physically able to remove snow from their sidewalk and driveways.  A few minutes of help can make a world of difference to the well being of a less able bodied person as well as make you a good neighbor.

2 Responses to “Ten Tips for Safe Snow Shoveling” (Leave a Comment)

1. backlinks says:

   January 13, 2010 at 8:05 pm

   You made some Good points there. I did a search on the topic and found most people will agree.
2. Jake Jones says:

   January 14, 2010 at 6:05 am

   I completely agree with everything in this post. keep up the good work