With blizzard warnings promising to drop a foot or more of snow, we have some suggestions for removing it safely.

We are very blessed to have a landlord who plows our very long driveway. But if you'll be pulling out the shovel or the snowblower, here are a few quick safety tips!

  • Follow the start-up procedures in your snowblower manual.
  • Do NOT put your fingers down the chute to clear a jam.
  • Shut off the engine before refueling.
  • If close to the roadway, make sure you are visible to traffic.
  • Dress in layers and wear a hat to prevent hypothermia.
  • If shoveling, take frequent breaks and don't over-exert yourself.
  • If large amounts of snow are predicted, shovel every couple of hours, so you're shoveling a few inches at a time instead of a foot!
  • Call 9-1-1 if you experience signs of a heart attack, including uncomfortable pressure, fullness, squeezing or pain in the center of the chest that goes away and comes back or lasts for more than a few minutes; pain in the shoulders, neck and arms; and chest discomfort accompanied by nausea, shortness of breath, sweating, feeling light-headed and fainting.
  • Keep a charged cellphone with you at all times in case you get in trouble and need to call for help.

When clearing snow from a roof:

  • Make sure the ladder is secure
  • Don't over-reach the ladder
  • Use a snow rake if possible without going up onto the roof
  • If a flat roof, stay at least 6 feet from the edge
  • Be careful not to step on a skylight

Have a safe start to the week, everyone!

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