Winter is upon us. In Alaska, areas have already received over 20” of snow. Alaskans know, there is more of this winter wonder on the way. A big part of dealing with snow accumulation is shoveling snow safely. All this lovely snow comes with risks. According to the National Safety Council, snow shoveling causes thousands of injuries and about 100 deaths per year.
Risks to Shoveling Snow Safely
Every year people move hundreds of pounds of snow, without knowing how much they have lifted. In winter, with fewer opportunities to be active, our bodies are more out of condition than we realize. This is especially true following 2020 and going into 2021 with COVID-19 related quarantining. It is important to listen to your body and not overexert yourself. Also, to keep in mind the cold. The American Heart Association writes that cold weather can increase blood pressure and heart rate. The cold also constricts arteries which decrease blood supply. Not to mention, the toll shoveling takes on our muscles and backs.
Be mindful: tips for safer shoveling include, but are not limited to:
- Push more snow than you lift
- Lift smaller amounts of snow per shovelful
- Take breaks
- Make sure your family or roommates know where you are working
- Listen to your body, if you don’t feel right STOP
The Merdes Law Firm has been helping injured Alaskans for more than 30 years. It’s who we are. And while we hope you never need us … We’re here if you do. ~ Ward Merdes
Sources: AccessPT; American Heart Association; National Safety Council; and Physiopedia
