Tips to stay safe while shoveling snow

If you took a drive around Lincoln today, you’d find many people out and about shoveling the wet, heavy snow that fell.

When shoveling snow, it’s never a bad idea to think about your own safety as well.

On Saturday many Lincolnites were out shoveling driveways and sidewalks in the aftermath of the largest snowstorm of the new year.

Shoveling in the cold has the potential to cause health issues.

One man says he doesn’t have a problem with taking things slow.

“I pace myself, especially with this wet stuff. If I find myself breathing hard I will stop without any hesitation without any disregard to feeling like I’m not strong enough or can’t do it,” said Jaime Allen.

Nationally, snow shoveling is responsible for thousands of injuries and as many as 100 deaths each year.

The strenuous activity of moving wet and heavy snow causes a surge in heart rate and blood pressure.

It can be the perfect storm for a heart attack, even for seemingly health people.

“You can be as healthy as a horse and still get in trouble shoveling this particular kind of snow,” said Allen.

There are a few things you can do to help yourself out there.

Taking regular breaks and not pushing yourself too hard is a good start.

“It is pretty hard on your back, this is a wet, heavy snow, so you have to take smaller scoops of it and maybe take your time doing it, take a break in between, come out and do little pieces at a time, just take your time and make sure you don’t get overexerted from it,” said Charlie Hill.

Other helpful tips are to always lift with your legs, not your back and not to allow yourself to work to the point of exhaustion.

Remember, a clear driveway is not worth your life.

“You are no less of a man by taking your time. The best idea is to get the job done safely so that you can return home to your families,” said Allen.

And with any strenuous workout, remember to stay hydrated and dress in layers. It’s cold out there.