Genesee County Health Department
Better Life Through Better Health
Release Date: For
Immediate Release Kill Date:
December 12, 2005
Contact Person:
Gary K. Johnson, MD, MPH
Medical Director
Genesee County Health Department
Phone:
(810) 257-3155
RE:
Shoveling
Snow Safely
Snow shoveling can put some people at risk for a heart attack or back
injury. Remember that your body is already working hard just to stay warm, so
don’t over do it. Keeping some safety tips in mind can reduce risk:
·
Before
shoveling, warm up with a few stretching exercises, which can prevent or reduce
muscle soreness and damage.
·
Wear
warm clothing in layers and cover your head, hands, neck, mouth and nose.
·
Wear
boots with rubber soles to reduce the chance of slipping and falling.
·
When
possible, clear your driveway or sidewalk when snow is the lightest, which is
generally when it is fresh.
·
While
shoveling, keep your back straight and knees bent and throw snow forward to
prevent back strain.
·
Push
the shovel to move the snow. If you need to lift snow, lift small amounts at a
time and use your entire body and keep load of snow close to you. Bend your
knees slightly and use your legs to lift the snow.
·
Follow
a slow and steady pace and take breaks often.
·
Drink
plenty of water or juice before, during, or after shoveling to prevent
dehydration which may occur from shoveling snow, breathing cold air and
sweating.
·
Cold
weather puts an extra strain on the heart. If you have heart disease or high
blood pressure, follow your doctor’s advice about shoveling snow or performing
other hard work in the cold.
·
Avoid
caffeine or nicotine as they increase heart rate and cause blood vessels to
narrow.
For
more information call the Genesee County Health Department at (810) 257-3612 or
visit our website at http://www.gchd.us
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