11 factors to know about shoveling snow: dangers and tips

January 27th, 2016 1 Comment

11 Snow Shoveling Dangers and Tips

With winter snow comes a greater risk of snow shoveling related deaths. According to a cardiologist who is an authority on the dangerous effects of snow removal, Barry Franklin, “people don’t have any idea how taxing it is on the heart.”

Approximately 100 deaths each winter are attributed to shoveling snow, possibly double
Heart rate and blood pressure rises even more than when walking on a treadmill
Being out in the cold air constricts blood vessels, decreasing blood flow
Avoid shoveling snow in the early morning when cardiac risks are higher
Arm work associated with shoveling is more strenuous than just using the legs
Sedentary people over the age of 55 with suspected heart conditions should avoid snow shoveling altogether
Pushing the snow is much less taxing than lifting
Remove snow after it’s first fallen; waiting can make snow heavier
One shovel full of snow can weigh up to 20 lbs
Dress warmly and drink fluids
Lift with your legs and keep your core tight