Shoveling Snow

The snow continues to fall throughout parts of the world. Millions of people use a snow shovel to clear a path to walk and drive. Rescue Rick the Grass Cut Man wants to create awareness with regards to snow shoveling safety, especially with regards to technique and to whether one should even shovel at all.

Although snowfall is often a delight for young children eager for sledding and snowball battles, adults who have to shovel that snow are rarely as enthusiastic. Snow shoveling can be good exercise, but even the hardiest wintertime warrior needs to take precautions to prevent overexertion or hypothermia. Individuals with a history of heart trouble should not shovel without a doctor's permission, and anyone older than 40 should be especially careful.

The National Safety Council offers these tips for safe shoveling:

Do not shovel after eating.
Pace yourself. Shoveling, like weightlifting, can raise your heart rate and blood pressure dramatically. Stretch and warm up before you start.
Shovel only fresh snow. Freshly fallen, powdery snow is easier to shovel than the wet, packed-down variety.
Push the snow as you shovel. This is easier on your back than lifting the snow out of the way.
Lift with your legs bent, not your back. Keep your back straight. By bending and "sitting" into the movement, you'll keep your spine upright and less stressed.
Do not work to the point of exhaustion. If you run out of breath, take a break. If you feel tightness in your chest, stop immediately.
Dress warmly. Remember that your body's extremities, such as the nose, ears, hands and feet, need extra attention during cold weather.

I have heard of many people who have had a heart attack while shoveling snow. Rescue Rick the Grass Cut Man (and sometimes snow man - always a yard safety man) wants to rescue individuals, families, and institutions from a snow shoveling medical issue and trauma.

Think before you shovel snow. It can hurt! Be yard safe!

Richard T. Mudrinich
Rescue Rick the Grass Cut Man
http://www.rescuerick.com