Clearing Away All That Snow

Shoveling, however annoying, is sometimes a necessary part of winter life. Whether it’s a driveway or a walkway, deep snow and slippery ice can be hazardous, so you’re probably going to end up shoveling something after this last storm! And, don't forget, there's more on the way!

Some things to keep in mind:
* If the job seems a bit too much for you, be realistic about it and enlist the help of someone else (a nice neighbor, hire someone, etc.). On the other hand, if you can, offer to help a neighbor who may be unable to clear snow away from critical places.
* All of this is going to melt, so be sure to clear snow and ice away from your drains so that the water can run from your roof and away from your home (and not get stuck next to the foundation and find a way in).
* Melting snow gets very heavy and can cause roofs to give way. Try to eliminate at least some of the weight from your roof. Again—be careful!!
* Clear away snow that is in front of the fire hydrant that serves your home. If it’s buried and the fire department can’t find it, precious time will be wasted in the event of a fire.

The first thing to remember before starting the dreary task is to dress for the occasion. Here are some tips to keep in mind when preparing for the cold weather:
* Retain body heat by wearing a hat.
* Wear boots with plenty of traction.
* Dress in layers.
* Wear thick gloves that will keep hands warm and provide a good grip.

Once you're outside and ready to tackle some snow, remember to be conscious of your physical exertion. It's very easy to fall, hurt your back, or overwork yourself while shoveling. Try to be aware of how you move your body by using these tips:
* Find a comfortable pace and stick to it.
* Drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated.
* Avoid smoking because it reduces oxygen intake needed for strenuous work.
* Always lift with your legs by bending at the knees, not waist.
* Stand with your feet shoulder width apart to maintain balance.
* Turn with your feet while moving snow instead of twisting with your waist.
* Take frequent breaks.
* Don't try to lift more than you can carry.

Now that your body is working in the safest and healthiest manner, you can gain more of an advantage by the way you shovel. There are many different shapes and sizes of shovels and some are more effective than others. Use these tips as guide for which type of shovel to use and how to use it:
* Invest in a plastic shovel because metal is a lot heavier.
* Choose a shovel with a curved handle to improve flexibility.
* Pick a shovel with a deep bucket so that it will hold a lot of snow.
* Place one hand near the base of the shovel with the other grasping the handle while lifting snow.
* Spray the bucket with a lubricant, such as Pam cooking spray, to help snow slide off easier.

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Author: R. Cohen/NBC10