How to Avoid Injury While Shovelling Snow

Shovelling snow is one of those thankless tasks that simply must be done no matter how much we’d like to pretend otherwise. The fact is that it’s hard work and all too often those of us who have spent a lot of time the previous day clearing paths, wake up to find that Mother Nature has been out and about whilst we’re sleeping and done her worst yet again - so the whole sorry task has to be repeated!

If you live in an area where the roads are not cleared by the authorities then you will know just how important shovelling snow can be, especially for those people who have mobility issues. This is why every winter many able-bodied people find themselves clearing snow not only around their own properties but also around those of their neighbours. Because it’s a hard, physical task but a somewhat mundane one, it’s surprising how many injuries are caused yearly by shovelling snow. People don’t realise that it’s actually a dangerous task and one which needs to be approached with some caution.

Like in Weight Lifting, you Need to Be Aware!

If the snow is like this then don't even bother getting the shovel out!

Shovelling snow is actually very similar to weight lifting, and since most people don’t do this on a regular basis, it’s reasonable to assume that they’re perhaps not best placed to go for it with no training. Bending, lifting and removing large, heavy amounts of snow is an activity which can put the body under huge strain and cause many minor and more serious injuries; from strained muscles to heart attacks. In order to ensure your safety when shovelling snow, take care of yourself and heed the following warnings.

• Never shovel snow when you have a pre-existing heart problem or any chronic illness.
• Ensure that your shovel is in good repair with no bends or weak spots.
• Use a small shovel.
• If you feel any pain whatsoever then stop immediately.
• Do not continue on through breathlessness or chest pain as that's not normal.
• Drink plenty of fluids - this is a very strenuous activity.
• Do not get overheated and if you feel uncomfortably warm then take a break.
• Do not attempt to throw shovelfuls of snow for long distances.

A good tip is to shovel little and often. Don’t wait for the snow to build up to epic proportions but keep it down as it falls. Whenever there is a break in the snow fall, move a little at a time from your paths and roads. Don’t even attempt to shovel snow if you are not in tip top condition physically as it will be an enormous shock to your system.

If you are worried about getting snowed in or about the safety of your access, call your local authority for advice on what to do in order to keep your home accessible and your health in good order. If you do not have neighbours or relatives to shovel snow for you, there are charities that specialise in this kind of task and your local authority should be able to point you in the right direction.

Stay safe in the winter by thinking twice before taking on tasks which could be too much for you to cope with and if you have to drive in the snow, take a look at our guide.

We Recommend:

Purchasing a good quality shovel is a wise move and with the one we recommend, it's very versatile thanks to the telescopic capabilities. Easy to store away too in the shed or the boot of your car.