Stay Safe While Shoveling Snow: Health Department Tips
ZANESVILLE, OH – The snow we got this past weekend has left our driveways and sidewalks covered, but as you grab your shovel, remember to put safety first.
While shoveling snow may seem like a simple task, the health department warns that is can lead to injuries such as back, shoulder, or arm strains, and for those with underlying conditions, it can even lead to heart attacks.
“There’s potential for serious medical illnesses such as heart injuries and heart attacks, especially in someone who has high blood pressure, diabetes, under lying heart disease, or coronary artery disease. Snow shoveling is a very physically taxing activity because you’re lifting a heavy shovel and often times, you’re pushing the shovel along the sidewalk and it suddenly hits a crack in the walk or a chunk of ice and your shovel stops moving. Then, suddenly you’re pushing against something that is not going to move, and your exercise has become asymmetric. Which is far more taxing on your cardiovascular system,” Zanesville Muskingum County Health Department Medical Director Jack Butterfield said.
To prevent injuries, it’s important to take your time and avoid overexertion. Warm up your muscles before starting, take frequent breaks, dress warmly, and stay hydrated.
“Take your time. Use a smaller shovel so it’s not as heavy, use an advantaged handle so it’s easier on your wrist and your upper extremity. Throw smaller amounts of snow at a time and take your time. Pace yourself. Those would be the primary things I’d suggest for shoveling snow,” Dr. Butterfield said.
If you have coronary artery disease, it’s best not to shovel snow at all. Dr. Butterfield suggests asking someone else to help or using a broom to brush off the snow to avoid unnecessary risks.
