Shovel Safely

Snow—a lot of thick, heavy snow—has fallen, which means this Iowa winter finally has Iowa winter weather. Freshly fallen snow offers a pristine, blank canvas on which we can build pudgy snowmen, make sweet snow angels, have a neighborhood snowball fight, or even tattoo a field with snowmobile tracks. While playtime in the sparkling spread is enough to make most anyone smile, many of us become dismayed at the sight of the fluffy white stuff, as we are tasked with the dreaded chore of snow removal.

Snow removal is a necessary evil. If the driveway, sidewalks, or roadways are not properly scooped, scraped, or plowed, vehicles may become stuck and people could become injured. On the same train of thought, if snow removal is not done safely, injury can result. So, before the time comes for you to brave the bitter cold to make your driveway passable, please take these safe shoveling tips from the Snow & Ice Management Association into consideration.

1. Stay on top of the snow. Don’t wait until the storm is over to remove the snow; shovel your driveway and walkways every few inches to avoid snow and ice making your territory their temporary home.
2. When shoveling, wear layers of clothing that allow your sweat to evaporate. Layer breathable materials, like cotton or silk, that you can remove as you become uncomfortably warm.
3. Wear warm, waterproof boots with good traction to keep your feet from becoming cold or from slipping.
4. Stretch before you shovel. Shoveling is a workout, and stretching will warm up and loosen your muscles before “working out” in the cold. Stretching may also help prevent injury and fatigue (no unnecessary visits to the GRMC ER).
5. Whenever possible, push the snow off to the side, don’t lift it. This will help conserve your strength and energy, while putting less stress on your body, particularly your lower back.
6. Take frequent breaks and stay hydrated. As mentioned earlier, shoveling is a workout, so drink water as if you were working out in a gym or running long distance.
7. Pay attention to your surroundings. Focusing on the task at hand is important in preventing injuries, but pay attention to your surroundings, particularly while shoveling next to the road, as motorists may not have good traction due to the snow and ice.
8. Keep your cell phone close, that way in the event there is an emergency, you can seek help.

In the event of an injury, the GRMC emergency room is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are unable to get to the ER safely or cannot physically manage, call 9-1-1.