Icy Walkways and Safe Snow Shoveling
Clearing Walks and Driveways Effectively Without Injury
Oct 20, 2009
Ice and snow covered walkways and driveways can be dangerous, so when winter leaves its frozen calling card, it is often necessary to either have it removed or get out the snow shovel. But snow shoveling can be risky also, not only from slipping and falling, but heart attacks as well. According to the American Heart Association, “People who are outdoors in cold weather should avoid sudden exertion, like lifting a heavy shovel full of snow.
Some people shouldn't shovel snow at all. North Dakota State University published a report listing who shouldn't shovel snow. They are:
- People who were previous victims of a heart attack
- Anyone with heart disease
- Individuals who have high cholesterol or blood pressure
- Smokers
- Those leading a sedentary lifestyle
For others, there are many precautions that can be taken to make the process safer, and they should be followed by even the healthiest people.
Preparing For the Storm
When receiving weather reports that a storm is coming, assemble the tools and products you will need. Place them so they are easily accessible, such as on a front porch. Spread salt or ice melt before the storm hits. This will help keep ice and snow from adhering to cement walkways and drives. Be cautious using these products as they can damage lawns, landscaping, and watersheds. Another option is spreading a granulated urea fertilizer. It melts ice and promotes plants in the spring.
Shoveling Ice and Snow Safely
Why is shoveling snow more dangerous than other activities? Simply put, it's the cold temperature. According to CBS News, “Your heart rate and blood pressure increase during strenuous activity. That, coupled with the body's natural reflex to constrict arteries and blood vessels when exposed to the cold, is a recipe for a heart attack.”
Begin by spreading salt, snow melt, or urea fertilizer first and give it time to work. Before shoveling, warm-up and do stretching exercises and drink plenty of water, not coffee, as coffee is a stimulant and will increase heart rate. Dress in layers. This will allow you to remove layers as needed to prevent over-heating.
If you need to break up ice or hard-packed snow, use a narrow garden shovel, then use a snow shovel for ice and snow removal. If possible, push the snow to the side rather than lifting it to help prevent back injuries and reduce exertion.
If you must lift, pick up snow using your knees, not your back and keep your back straight. It puts strain on your back if you bend at the hips to pick up snow. Place your hands apart from each other to increase leverage and step with the throw, preventing you from corkscrewing your back. Pick up smaller loads and don't become over-eager and attempt larger loads.
Take a breather every 10 minutes and use the opportunity to drink more fluids to keep the body hydrated. If the snow is sticking to the shovel, spray your shovel with some silicone or spread vegetable oil on it so snow slides off smoothly.
Be Aware
Be aware of the heart attack signals and heed the body's warnings, especially chest pains. If there are symptoms, call an ambulance or arrange for transportation to the hospital immediately. Be on the safe side. If you only want to improve traction on the ice, spread sifted ash, kitty litter or sand on the surface.
Check with a physician if there are doubts. By adhering to these guidelines, you can shovel ice and snow safely and effectively, and prevent a heart attack or other serious injury.
Sources:
American Heart Association (2009), Cold Weather and Cardiovascular Disease, Retrieved Oct. 19, 2009 fromhttp://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4570
North Dakota State University (1999), NDSU Extension Service, The Scoop On Snow Shoveling Safely, Retrieved Oct. 19, 2009 from http://www.ext.nodak.edu/snow.htm
CBS News (2005), Snow Shoveling Safely, Early Show, Retrieved Oct. 19, 2009 from http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/01/24/earlyshow/contributors/emilysenay/main668725.shtml
U.S. Navy, Safe Tips – Snow Shoveling, U.S. Navy Safety Center, Retrieved Oct. 19, 2009 fromhttp://safetycenter.navy.mil/safetips/n-z/shovelingsnow.htm
Reader's Digest, Practical Problem Solver (New York: The Reader's Digest Association, 1991), pp. 119, 191
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