Safety Tips While Shovelling Snow

by Mark Craig Brantford Property Management

Brantford, usually experiences its first snowfall between November and December, while at times even in October. These months usually experience heavy snowfall and it becomes important to clear snow from the driveways or your sidewalks. This is a tedious process and can cause a lot of aches and pains, back injuries and in case of any serious health problems, it could even lead to heart attacks. Hence proper care needs to be taken while shovelling snow. Here are a few points that you could keep in mind the next time you pick up that shovel.

Wear Warm Clothing

Winters in Brantford can become really cold and can even reach freezing point. Hence it is very important to bundle up well before you step out of your homes. You could wear several loose layers of clothing coupled with a water-resistant coat. Also, remember to wear your boots to protect your feet. Don’t forget your scarf, hat and gloves. Keep your gloves as dry as possible while shovelling snow.

Eat Right

It is advisable not to shovel snow immediately after a big meal as it could stress out your heart. It is also good to avoid alcohol before shovelling snow as it could dull your perception of the cold and could lead to further problems. Take sufficient water breaks. Although it would be freezing outside and you probably would want a nice hot cup of coffee, drinking water is very important. Shovelling snow is a physical activity that causes you to sweat and hence it is important to stay hydrated.

Start Slow

Just like how you warm up before working out in a gym, it is good to do a few warm-up exercises and stretches before you begin shovelling snow. Rather than shovelling large amounts of snow, take it slow. You can begin by just pushing the snow along the ground to let it out of the way. Also, using a small shovel instead of a big one puts less strain on your back.

Take Multiple Breaks

Don’t be in a hurry to complete your task. Make sure you take enough breaks. Snow in Brantford can go very deep. Shovelling without break can put an enormous strain on your body and can cause you to burn out quickly. Make sure you stretch your back every five to ten minutes. Pay attention to your body. If you feel dizzy or nauseous at any time, make sure you stop and rest your body.

Best Time to Shovel

Starting immediately after the snow begins falling is considered a better option rather than waiting for it to end. The snow that has just fallen is light and fluffy and easy to shovel and gets harder and heavier to move the longer it stays on the ground. The ideal time to shovel would be after an inch or two of snowfall has accumulated.

Also, Read: Brantford City — A Healthy City for Its Residents