Avoid Unnecessary Injuries with a Little Snow Removal Savvy

By: Diana Barnes-Brown for Body1

As winter clouds gather overhead, most who live in snowy or icy regions heave a sigh and stock up on snow shovels and rock salt. Fewer take a moment to consider how to prevent commonly occurring injuries related to winter conditions and snow removal, even though these injuries often account for a great portion of emergency room visits taking place throughout the season. Fortunately, it only takes a few simple safety precautions and a bit of common sense to avoid injury.

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Quick Tips for Dealing with Ice and Snow Keep walkways clear of dangerous snow and ice to prevent unnecessary slips, trips, and falls. When using a snow blower, wear goggles and steer clear of flying debris, which may contain chunks of ice and rock. Never reach into the blades of a snow removal device, even if the device is not moving or has been turned off. Use appropriate lifting and exercise cautions when doing any strenuous outdoor work. Listen to your body and wear braces on any weak joints. Wear appropriate footwear. Use harnesses and restraints when working up high or climbing. Let those nearby know when you’re going to be doing any potentially dangerous outdoor tasks, and when you’ll be back. Bundle up to prevent exposure-related dangers. Drive carefully if you have to drive, and try to avoid going out when weather reports caution drivers. Make sure your car is winter-ready with appropriate tires and emergency supplies.

The first step to an injury-free winter is to take adequate responsibility for snow and ice removal around your property. If you live in a place with building management that includes these services, make sure your property manager does the same.

When removing snow and ice, remember that the key to safe walkways and driveways is thorough snow removal. Chip away ice buildup, make sure paths are wide enough for safe passage, and spread sand or ice-melt (a no-phosphate, organic brand, if possible, to protect your lawn and keep dangerous pollutants out of soil groundwater). Avoid U-shaped edges and clear a space to allow melting snow and ice to drain – otherwise the edges can melt and re-freeze with slippery, sloped borders that are a recipe for twisted ankles, sprained knees and broken hips, especially in those already prone to falls.

If using a snow blower, wear goggles or other protective eyewear and stay well behind the path of the spout, which may contain anything from chunks of ice to rocks to broken glass, all capable of causing serious injury when propelled by the snow blower’s powerful engine. If anything gets stuck in the blades of the snow blower, never use hands or toes to dislodge it, even if blades are completely still. A great deal of force is needed to cut through snow and ice quickly, and if the blockage comes loose before you’ve had a chance to move, all this energy could be unleashed on wayward body parts.

When doing any sort of outdoor work, pay special attention to footwear and terrain. If working on an icy roof or a ladder for example, take special care to wear work boots that can grip slippery surfaces, use appropriate harnesses and restraints, and always work with a buddy and let someone nearby know where you will be and when you expect to be done.

Another point of caution for outdoor work activities is to exercise safe lifting and exertion practices – lift with the legs and not the back to prevent back and neck injuries, stick to physical activity that isn’t a stretch for your body’s level of strength and endurance, and make sure any previously injured or weak joints are braced when lifting or walking on tough terrain.

Be sure to wear clothing appropriate to the temperature, as these garments are instrumental in preventing frostbite and hypothermia. And keep in mind that potentially life-threatening at the best of times, these two exposure-related health risks are especially dangerous during snow removal, when sluggish motor skills from too-cold hands and feet and disorientation from low body temperature can increase the likelihood of injuries while at work.

Driving during inclement weather is another source of danger during the winter months, when slippery roads, poor visibility and temperatures can put drivers and passengers at risk. Make sure cars and trucks have weather-appropriate tires or chains as recommended by your automotive center, avoid going out when weather reports caution drivers, be especially vigilant when driving, and make sure everyone’s seatbelt practices are safe – and that means everyone buckles up. It is also a good idea to stock emergency blankets, flares, ice scrapers, a gas can and extra windshield fluid in your trunk in case of unexpected storms or strandings.

This may sound like a lot of information to keep track of, but most of the tips send the same basic message: prepare appropriately, use caution and be aware of the dangers. It is not a very tall order when the payback is a winter free of injuries.

Last updated: 05-Feb-07