SAFETY TIP:

Shoveling Snow

Much of the country is still reeling from record snowfalls in recent weeks. That means people everywhere are digging out their cars, homes and businesses - and injuring themselves in the process. The Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) says shoveling snow is like lifting weights in freezing temperatures on uneven, slippery ground while wearing heavy clothing. Emergency rooms are crowded every winter with people who have injured their backs while shoveling snow. Researchers also report an increase in the number of fatal heart attacks among snow shovelers after a heavy snowfall.

Here's the scoop on safe snow shoveling from our experienced neighbors to the north:

Warm up first. Walk for a few minutes and flex and stretch. Allow enough time. People get hurt when they try to shovel in a hurry. Wear several layers of warm, lightweight clothing that lets you move comfortably. Cover your head, especially your ears, feet and hands. Wear water-resistant boots with

good traction. In very cold weather, try to cover your face as much as possible. Spread salt, sand or cat litter to create better traction if the ground is icy or slippery. Keep moving and work at a steady pace. Shovel only small, manageable amounts (1-2

inches) at a time. Protect your back by lifting properly and safely:

o Stand with feet at hip width for balance o Hold the shovel close to your body o Space hands apart to increase leverage o Bend from your knees, not your back o Push the snow rather than lift it o Tighten your stomach muscles while lifting

Walk to dump snow rather than throwing it. DO NOT twist at the waist or throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side.

Recognize danger signs. Stop shoveling and call 911 if you feel discomfort or heaviness in the chest, arms or neck, or other signs of overexertion.

Snow Shoveling and Cold Weather Safety Resources:

NIOSH Cold Stress page. Canadian OSH Shoveling page. OSHA Rooftop Snow Removal page. Snow Removal Tips from The Weather Channel. Thin Ice Safety Signs at ComplianceSigns.com.

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800-578-1245 www.ComplianceSigns.com