Living in Wisconsin, there a certain things that are guaranteed — Summerfest, State Fair, the Packers and snow. If you have been watching the weather channel or the news, you may be hearing things like blizzards, wind gusts, and the four letter word, SNOW.
Here's what the National Weather Service is saying about this latest stom, “… (it) could be a historic blizzard capable of paralyzing parts of southeast Wisconsin.” So, OK, it is going to snow, a lot, and there is going to be some major shoveling happening.
There are a few things to keep in mind to stay safe while shoveling.
- Make sure you stretch before going out to shovel. Shoveling can be a serious workout.
- Push snow, do not lift it and definitely do not throw snow over your shoulder. Lifting and throwing snow can cause stress on the spine and potential injury.
- If you must lift the snow, remember to lift with your thighs, not with your back. Use proper lifting techniques and scoop small amounts of snow at a time.
The type of shovel you use is important as well:
- Use a curved handle shovel; it places less stress on your back.
- A plastic shovel weighs less than a metal shovel, again placing less stress on your spine.
- A smaller width shovel blade is better. Granted it may take you longer to shovel with a smaller width, but this protects you from lifting too heavy of a shovel-load of snow.
The most important thing to remember with shoveling is to stop if you have any pain. In fact, any pain at all, you should stop immediately and seek medical help. Please remember the signs of a heart attack when shoveling. There is not an unwritten law that you must shovel everything at once. Take your time, do smaller sections.
One last thing to think about with the snow and shoveling. If you are able to shovel, remember the people in your neighborhood who cannot shovel. You can make a person’s day by helping out with shoveling!