10 Powerful and Effective Tips to Safely Shovel Snow This Winter

Shovel snow during winter can be daunting. Winter brings beautiful snow-covered landscapes, but with that beauty comes the responsibility of clearing snow from driveways, sidewalks, and walkways. Shoveling snow may seem like a simple task, but improper technique can lead to injury, fatigue, or even property damage. At PuroClean of Bluffdale, we understand the importance of safety and preparedness, especially during harsh winter conditions. That’s why we’ve put together this guide on how to shovel snow properly and safely. If you encounter any form of property damage, PuroClean of Bluffdale is the expert to call. Call PuroClean of Bluffdale at (801) 254-6204 or click here.

Here’s everything you need to know to get the job done effectively and protect yourself while doing it.

1. Choose the Right Snow Shovel to Shovel Snow

Having the right tool for the job is the first step to safe and efficient snow removal. Here are a few things to consider when selecting your snow shovel:

• Lightweight Material: A lightweight plastic or aluminum shovel is easier to handle and less taxing on your body than a heavy metal one.
• Ergonomic Handle: Look for a shovel with an ergonomic handle, ideally with a slight curve, which helps reduce strain on your back.
• Right Size: The blade should be wide enough to scoop a decent amount of snow but not so large that it becomes too heavy to lift.

2. Warm Up Before Shoveling

Shoveling snow can be physically demanding, similar to an intense workout. To prevent injury, it’s important to warm up your muscles before getting started. Take five to ten minutes to stretch and loosen up, focusing on your back, shoulders, and legs. A light walk or marching in place can also help increase your heart rate and get your blood flowing.

3. Dress Appropriately for Cold Weather

Dressing in layers is key when working outside in freezing temperatures. Make sure you’re wearing:

• Waterproof boots: To keep your feet warm and dry, wear insulated, waterproof boots with good traction to prevent slipping on icy surfaces.
• Warm layers: Opt for moisture-wicking layers under a winter coat to keep yourself warm but avoid overheating.
• Gloves: Thick, insulated gloves will keep your hands warm and protect them from blisters while gripping the shovel.
• Hat and scarf: Keep your head, neck, and ears protected from the cold to prevent frostbite.

4. Use Proper Shoveling Technique

To avoid straining your body or injuring yourself, it’s essential to use the correct shoveling technique. Follow these tips to shovel safely and efficiently:

• Push, Don’t Lift: Whenever possible, push the snow to the side instead of lifting it. Pushing puts less strain on your back and reduces the risk of injury.
• Bend Your Knees: When you do need to lift snow, always bend your knees and use your legs to lift rather than your back. Keep your back straight and avoid twisting as you lift.
• Keep Loads Light: Shovel smaller amounts of snow at a time. Overloading your shovel can lead to fatigue and increase the likelihood of injury. You can always take multiple trips rather than straining to lift too much at once.
• Switch Sides: Alternate which hand leads on the shovel to balance the work on both sides of your body. This helps reduce muscle fatigue and prevents overworking one side.

5. Take Breaks and Stay Hydrated

Snow shoveling can be exhausting, especially when dealing with heavy, wet snow. To avoid overexertion, make sure to take regular breaks. Listen to your body—if you’re feeling tired or short of breath, stop for a moment to rest.

Even though it’s cold, you can still become dehydrated. Drink water before, during, and after shoveling to stay hydrated and maintain energy levels.

6. Clear Snow Early and Often

Snow is much easier to manage when it’s freshly fallen and hasn’t yet compacted or turned to ice. To make the job easier, start shoveling early, ideally before it builds up too much. If you’re expecting a heavy snowfall, consider shoveling multiple times throughout the storm rather than waiting for it to pile up.

7. Be Mindful of Where You Throw the Snow

As you clear snow from your driveway or walkway, avoid throwing it onto public streets or your neighbor’s property. In some areas, there are local regulations that prohibit placing snow in roadways, as it can create dangerous conditions for drivers.

Instead, aim to pile snow in areas of your yard where it won’t obstruct pathways, driveways, or drainage systems. Be mindful of where your piles are in relation to your home’s foundation, as melting snow can cause flooding or water damage.

8. Watch for Ice

Even after clearing the snow, be aware of icy patches that can form underneath or on top of the snow. To improve traction and reduce the risk of slipping, sprinkle salt, sand, or ice melt on your driveway and walkways. However, avoid overusing salt near plants or grass, as it can damage them.

9. Know When to Stop and Seek Help

While shoveling snow is a routine task for many homeowners, it’s essential to know your limits. If you have health issues such as heart disease, high blood pressure, or back problems, it’s best to avoid shoveling altogether. The strain can trigger health complications or worsen preexisting conditions.

If the job is too much for you, consider hiring a professional snow removal service or asking for help from a neighbor or family member.

10. Prepare for the Worst

Even with the best efforts, heavy snowfall can cause issues like roof damage, ice dams, and flooding from melting snow. At PuroClean of Bluffdale, we specialize in property restoration and disaster cleanup. If winter weather causes water damage or other issues in your home, our team is ready to help restore your property quickly and efficiently.

Shoveling snow properly is about more than just clearing a path—it’s about doing so safely and efficiently. By using the right tools, warming up, and applying proper technique, you can make snow removal a smoother, less risky task. And remember, if winter weather causes damage to your property, PuroClean of Bluffdale is here to help with expert restoration services. Call PuroClean of Bluffdale at (801) 254-6204.

Stay safe this winter, and let PuroClean be your trusted partner for all your property restoration needs! For more on how PuroClean of Bluffdale can help property owners when a property damage happens, read our blog post on the 7 Great Reasons PuroClean of Bluffdale is the Premier Choice for Property Restoration Services in Salt Lake City