DC Resident, 82, Dies Shoveling Snow

WASHINGTON, DC -- The DC medical examiner announced at a City news conference Sunday night that a DC resident died after going into cardiac arrest after shoveling snow.

The 82-year old man, who was not identified, is the City’s first fatality related to the historic blizzard that hit the area over the weekend.

Subscribe here to the Georgetown Patch free daily newsletter, news alerts

DC Mayor Muriel Bowser is asking residents to help shovel snow for their elderly or disabled neighbors.

The National Safety Council shares these tips to shovel safely.

• Do not shovel after eating or while smoking
• Take it slow and stretch out before you begin
• Shovel only fresh, powdery snow; it’s lighter
• Push the snow; don’t lift it
• If you do lift it, use a small shovel or only partially fill the shovel
• Lift with your legs, not your back
• Do not work to the point of exhaustion

Pushing a heavy snow blower comes with its own risks, including the strain of cold temperatures for anyone age 40 or older or those with heart problems. Cold weather can make blood clot more easily and constrict arteries, even in healthy people.

Experts say that the keys to not overdoing snow removal are to keep shoveling in shifts, and wear layers.

• Stay on top of the snowfall. Clear the snow every few inches instead of waiting for the snow to stop falling. It’s easier on you physically, and keeps the snow from sticking to surfaces.

• Wear loose layers. As you warm up, take off a layer of light clothing; be sure the material lets sweat evaporate. Put on cotton and silk, or manmade materials that breathe, rather than heavy wools.

• Check your feet. Keep your feet warm in waterproof boots with good traction to avoid falls.

• Stay hydrated. One expert says you should drink water when shoveling as if you were doing a workout at the gym or running five miles.

• Snow Blower SafetyAnd if you crank up the snow blower, watch for these hazards:
  • If the blower jams, turn it off
  • Keep your hands away from the moving parts
  • Do not drink alcohol and use the snow blower
  • Be aware of the carbon monoxide risk of running a snow blower in an enclosed space
  • Refuel your snow blower when it is off, never when it is running
  
  

Snow safety story by Deb Belt, Patch Staff

PHOTO: Shutterstock image