EFFINGHAM— Winter is here, and snow has already covered many regions of the United
States. With the possible snow event expected for the region, HSHS St. Anthony’s Memorial
Hospital and Prairie Heart Institute want to ensure area residents stay as safe as possible when
venturing outdoors.
Slips and falls can cause serious harm as conditions of roads, parking lots and sidewalks worsen
in winter weather. Additionally, snow shoveling is responsible for thousands of injuries and as
many as 100 deaths each year nationwide, according to the National Safety Council.
“Even for those who are physically fit, shoveling snow can be a strenuous activity,” says Sheri
Barnett, Prairie Heart Institute nurse practitioner. “Colder temperatures can lead to increase in
heart rate and blood pressure, as well as an increased risk of exhaustion, dehydration, back
injuries and heart attacks.”
Here are some tips to be mindful of over the next few months to avoid slips and falls:
• Beware of wet, dark areas on the pavement. There may be thin, hardly visible layers of ice
(black ice) on these spots as a result of dew or water vapor freezing. It is best to treat all of
these areas as slippery in cold temperatures.
• Walk slowly and take short strides. Use handrails when walking up or down steps. Choose
well-walked paths and avoid taking shortcuts, since these areas may not be accessible for
snow or ice removal.
• Keep your hands free and extend your arms while walking. Avoid carrying too much or
placing your hands in your pockets. This will keep your center of gravity from decreasing
and help to maintain balance.
Keeping your driveway and walkway clear of snow and ice is, in most cases, a necessity and will
help prevent falls this winter. But it is important to not overexert yourself which can lead to
serious health issues.
Follow these snow-shoveling tips to help keep you safe this winter.
• Know if you shouldn’t shovel. Certain people should avoid shoveling snow. If you have a
history of heart problems, you should discuss with your doctor.
• Dress appropriately. Wear light clothing in layers to provide both ventilation and insulation.
To keep warm, wear a hat, gloves and thick socks. Avoid falls by wearing shoes or boots
with slip-resistant soles.
• Warm up first. Before you begin shoveling the snow, warm up your muscles for
approximately 10 minutes by doing stretches or other light exercises.
• Use proper equipment. Use a shovel that is comfortable for your height and strength. Do
not use a shovel that is too heavy or too long for you. Space your hands on the tool grip to
increase your leverage.
• Lift snow correctly. Try to push the snow instead of lifting it. If you must lift, do it properly.
Squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight. Lift with your legs. Avoid bending
at the waist. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel and walk to where you want to
dump it. Holding a shovelful of snow with your arms outstretched puts too much weight on
your spine. Never remove deep snow all at once. Do it in pieces.
• Avoid overexerting yourself. Be very careful not to overexert yourself as you work. Pace
yourself and take breaks often. It’s a good idea to go indoors to warm up. Taking five to 10
minutes to relax gives your body time to rest. Pay attention to the signals your body is
sending. If you feel pain or pressure in your chest, call your doctor right away.
• Choose chemical products carefully. Putting a layer of rock salt (sodium chloride) on icy
areas is an effective way to melt the ice. However, rock salt can cause damage to concrete
and metal surfaces and is also harmful to plants. Magnesium chloride is less corrosive than
other chemical products and works well for melting ice. Before using any ice-melting
products read the labels carefully.
“Please keep in mind that it is always best to check with your doctor to make sure that it is all
right for you to shovel snow. If you have a medical condition or are not used to strenuous
exercise, a safer step would be to have someone else clear your snow,” said Barnett. “If while
you are shoveling snow or using a snow blower you experience chest pain, shortness of breath,
or other sudden or severe symptoms, stop immediately and call 9-1-1.”
For more information about snow shoveling safety, please visit https://www.nsc.org/community-
safety/safety-topics/seasonal-safety/winter-safety/snow-shoveling.Winter Safety Tips from St. Anthony Hospital