HOW TO SHOVEL SNOW SAFELY

Ah, winter. When the temps drop and the snow clouds blow in, we know it’s time to drag out the snow shovels. After 70 years of working in the coldest, toughest conditions, we’ve learned a thing or two about how to stay warm and safe while shoveling snow.

First, you gotta stay ahead of cold stress and cold-related injuries like frostbite and hypothermia. Then, while you’re out there busting your butt to clear the snow, you gotta worry about not *actually* busting your butt or throwing out your back with a slip, trip or fall on slick, icy surfaces.

Finally, snow shoveling is so strenuous that the American Heart Association recommends even those folks without any known heart conditions be careful of increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure and possible heart attacks while shoveling snow.

Top 10 Tips for Shoveling Snow without Getting Hurt

How can homeowners clear snow off their driveways and sidewalks without getting hurt? Follow these 10 tips for shoveling snow safely:

 1.  Dress in warm, breathable layers such as insulated coveralls, thermal sweatshirts and moisture-wicking base layers.
 2.  Wear waterproof, insulated snow boots with slip-resistant outsoles.
 3.  Wear insulated work gloves with reinforced palms to protect your hands from frostbite and blistering.
 4.  Keep the vulnerable skin of your face, ears, and neck fully covered with a thermal beanie or full-face ski mask.
 5.  Avoid slips, trips and falls on slick or icy surfaces by taking short, shuffling steps. Walk flat-footed and keep your weight evenly distributed.
 6.  To avoid muscle strain, shovel with your knees bent, your feet in a wide stance, and with your toes facing the shovel.
 7.  Keep your back straight and push the snow with the shovel, rather than lifting or tossing it.
 8.  Pace yourself and take short rest breaks.
 9.  Remember to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and avoid muscle cramps.
 10.  If you experience chest pain, feel lightheaded or dizzy, or if your heart beats in an irregular rhythm, stop shoveling snow immediately. Call 911    if the symptoms don’t stop shortly after you stop shoveling snow.

How to Dress for Shoveling Snow

Shoveling snow isn’t the most fun thing to do in the winter, but if you’re dressed properly for working in the cold, the job gets a little easier. Dressing in layers that keep you warm without overheating or getting sweaty is the secret to working comfortably in the cold.

Start with a moisture-wicking base layer. When your skin is damp and sweaty, you’ll feel colder. So, it’s important to stay away from cotton base layers and instead choose fabric blends with more breathability.

Next, you need a core-warming mid-layer. Choose an insulated hoodie, thermal sweatshirt or a vest to provide an extra layer of insulation around your core. When your core is warm, it’s easier for your body to circulate blood to your arms, legs, hands and feet so you stay warmer all over.

Then choose a wind-tight and water-repellent outer layer to guard against wind chill and wet weather. Look for weatherproof work jackets or insulated coveralls suited to the temperatures you’re working in and your level of activity.

Most folks know to add a hat, boots and gloves before they go out to shovel snow, but you might want to layer up there, too. You can add warmth to your winter work gloves by adding a pair of glove liners or tucking in a hand warmer.

Similarly, you can add warmth to your snow boots by doubling up on moisture-wicking thermal socks or foot warmers.

Finally, you can face the cold head-on by layering your beanie with a gaiter to give your whole head and neck full protection from frostbite.

Need more help choosing the right insulated workwear for snow shoveling? Check out these 10 tips in our Beginner’s Guide to Working Outside in winter.

Get the Best Clothes for Shoveling Snow

For over 70 years, RefrigiWear has been on the frontlines of the world’s coldest conditions. We know how dangerous it can be and how miserable it can feel when the weather’s frigid and you’ve still got a job to do.

Trust RefrigiWear insulated workwear for men and women to keep you safe, warm and comfortable in extreme cold weather. Shop the best gear for snow shoveling.