Shoveling Safety Tips!

Winter is here and it's time to bring out the shovels!

Whether you just have to clear a few steps or dig a car out from 3 feet of snow, Here are some tips to help avoid soreness, pain or strain from shoveling:

■Be prepared. Maintain your exercise program year-round.

■Listen to weather forecasts so you can rise early and have time to shovel before work; rushing the job can lead to injury.

■Wear layers of clothing to keep your muscles warm and flexible.

■Do some stretching before you grab the shovel.

■For big jobs use a motorized snow blower. If you shovel by hand, use a lightweight,
Ergonomically-designed shovel to reduce back strain.

■When you do shovel, push the snow straight ahead. Don't try to throw it; walk it to the snowbank. Avoid sudden twisting and turning motions.

■Bend your knees, to lift when shoveling. Let the muscles of your legs and arms do the work, not your back.

■Take frequent rest breaks to take the strain off your muscles. A fatigued body asks for injury.

■Stop if you feel chest pain, or get excessively tired or have shortness of breath. You may require immediate professional care.

■If you feel sore after shoveling, apply an ice bag to the affected area for 20 minutes, then take it off for a couple of hours. Repeat a couple of times each day over the next day or two.

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