Wintertime is in Wisconsin can cause some serious issues. Have you ever noticed that it really only snows hard when you have someplace to go or when there is no one else to help you shovel? I can pretty much guarantee the heavy snow is going to come when my husband is working! So really the snow blower was bought for me!
There are a few safety points to keep in mind when shoveling or snow blowing the snow from your driveway or sidewalks. The strain from cold temperatures and overexertion with shoveling snow may cause a heart attack in older and less physically fit individuals. Know the warning signs for heart attacks (
www.americanheart.org). If you are using a snow blower, never, ever stick your hand inside the discharge chute. Some of the newer models come with a pole to help dislodge what is stuck. In the Emergency Department, we see so many people that come in with significant finger and hand damage after sticking their hand in the chute!
My husband and a lot of our neighbors also rake the snow off the roof. There are a few safety tips to keep in mind. Look at your surroundings before raking. Are you on a flat or uneven surface? Must you really use a ladder to rake? If you need to use a ladder, check the condition of the rungs. Make sure the rungs and your shoes are dry before climbing on up. Place the feet of the ladder on a dry level surface. Stand at or even below the highest safe standing level. When using an extension ladder, keep both feet and one hand in constant contact with the ladder. Remember to keep your body centered at all times. You do not want to lean over the side; this can cause the ladder to shift and you to fall.
All this talk about snow is making me chilly, off to grab another cup of hot chocolate …