Snow Shoveling Advice To Prevent Injuries

Somerset, NJ -- Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in Somerset and New Brunswick offers tips to prevent injuries during snow removal.

“Whether it’s a run-of-the-mill snowfall or a snowmageddon-style big storm, picking up a shovel or pushing a heavy snow blower is more than just an annoying chore—it can result in injury or death,” RWJ posted.

“Cold weather can increase your heart rate and blood pressure. And moving hundreds of pounds of snow, especially after not doing anything physical for months, can put a big strain on the heart, even in healthy people,” RWJ posted.

The National Safety Council recommends the following tips for shoveling safely:

1. Do not shovel after eating or while smoking
2. Take it slow and shovel only fresh, powdery snow
3. Push the snow rather than lifting it
4. If you do lift it, use a small shovel or only partially fill the shovel and lift with your legs, not your back
5. Do not work to the point of exhaustion
6. If you feel tightness in the chest or dizziness, stop immediately