Although it may seem like a simple wintertime chore, shoveling snow has the potential to be an extremely dangerous activity, even for the healthiest of individuals. According to the National Safety Council, shoveling causes thousands of injuries and up to 100 deaths each winter. This is mainly due to the strain that moving heavy snow puts on one’s heart.
So what can you do to prevent disasters while clearing the snow from your property this winter? Here are a few tips from our Bucks County severe injury lawyer:
- Stretch before heading outdoors – Shoveling is hard on your muscles, so it’s important to do some stretching prior to venturing out into the snow. When you take the time to prepare your body, you’ll lower your risk of sustaining an injury and/or feeling sore the next day.
- Clear the snow a little bit at a time – It may seem pointless to go outside and shovel while snow is still falling, but this is actually a good strategy because it prevents snow from building up. By going out to shovel every few minutes or hours instead of waiting until the snow has piled up, you’ll have an easier time dealing with it with less chances of hurting yourself.
- Avoid lifting the snow – Whenever possible, you should push the snow instead of lifting it. This method uses far less energy, which makes it much easier on your heart.
- Take breaks – If you have a lot of snow to shovel, be sure to take a few minutes to rest and drink some water. And if you find yourself feeling dizzy or strange, stop shoveling immediately and seek medical attention.
- Stay alert to what is happening around you – While shoveling, don’t forget to pay attention to your surroundings, especially if you’re close to a street – you never know when a vehicle could lose traction on the slippery road and come in your direction.
- Bring a phone with you – When you’re shoveling and an emergency situation arises, having a cell phone in your pocket might just save your life by allowing you to call or text someone and tell them you need help.
Needless to say, shoveling snow comes with a number of risks. But when you follow these tips from our severe injury attorney in Bucks County, you’ll greatly decrease your chances of being injured or worse while shoveling.
Hurt While Shoveling? Call the Heslin Law Firm
Unfortunately, even when you do your best to stay safe while shoveling, accidents can still happen. In the event that you are injured by another party while shoveling or participating in some other activity this winter, you can trust the Heslin Law Firm to help you recover your losses. As the severe injury lawyer Bucks County citizens have relied on for more than 30 years, we have the legal knowledge and skills needed to give you the best possible chance of winning your case.
So if you’re wondering how to proceed with your case, call our Bucks County injury attorney now at (215) 332-0300. And if you’d like to learn how to prevent winter construction site accidents, be sure to read last week’s post. We wish you a safe and happy winter!