Safety Tips For Shoveling Snow After Winter Storm (Video)

By Staff Reporter
Posted on 03/14/17 | News Source: Pikesville Patch

Maryland residents should remain cautious while shoveling snow after Monday night's snow storm. Here are some tips on how to stay safe.

SILVER SPRING, MD — Maryland residents should remain cautious while shoveling snow after Monday night's snow storm. The storm can create potentially dangerous situations, from icy patches to dehydration.

Shoveling snow is a strenuous activity that can increase blood pressure and heart rate. Make sure you are physically fit enough to shovel snow, and seek help if you aren’t. Residents are encouraged to help seniors or others who may not be physically able to shovel.

According to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA):

“Shoveling snow can be a strenuous activity, particularly because cold weather can be tasking on the body. There is a potential for exhaustion, dehydration, back injuries, or heart attacks. During snow removal in addition to following the tips for avoiding cold stress, such as taking frequent breaks in warm areas, there are other precautions workers can take to avoid injuries. Workers should warm-up before the activity, scoop small amounts of snow at a time and where possible, push the snow instead of lifting it. The use of proper lifting technique is necessary to avoid back and other injuries when shoveling snow: keep the back straight, lift with the legs and do not turn or twist the body.”

Here are some safety tips to keep in mind while shoveling snow from Patient First in Baltimore:

Montgomery County Police also offered the following suggestions:

Unwary shovelers are risking more than just injury, according to reports. In January, a pregnant Pennsylvania teen died after shoveling snow during the blizzard, her family told reporters. The baby did not survive.