There comes a time in a man's life when he must realize his limitations to complete certain tasks, and when it's finally time to pass the torch to his kids. Snow shoveling is one of those things. Not only is it a pain in the neck (and other area's as well), but it could be downright deadly.

 

Photo by Davis Turner/Getty Images
Photo by Davis Turner/Getty Images
loading...

While heart attacks may be the most serious consequence of shoveling snow, I bet you never thought there are other even more common health risks including dehydration, back injuries, pulled muscles, broken bones and frostbite.

But the good news is there are ways to safely shovel snow. According to turnto10.com here are some tips you can use:

TIP #1: Stay on top of the snow. The best advice is to stay ahead of the storm. Prevent snow and ice from adhering to the sidewalk or street by clearing the snow every few inches instead of waiting for the snow to stop falling before you head outdoors.

TIP #2: Wear breathable layers. Layering is typical cold winter weather advice. Wearing layers of loose clothing allows you to peal a layer off if you get hot. Avoid wearing heavy wools, manmade materials or other materials that don't allow perspiration to evaporate. Better choices are cotton and silk.

TIP #3: Watch your feet. You need to pay attention to what's on your feet when heading outdoors to shovel snow. Wearing outdoor winter wear such as waterproof boots with good traction. Good traction is critical to ensuring that you don't slip and fall.

TIP #4: Take a few minutes to stretch. Shoveling snow is a workout so you need to stretch to warm up your muscles particularly because you are shoveling snow in the cold weather. Stretching before you start shoveling will help prevent injury and fatigue.

TIP #5: Push don't lift. Push the snow to the side rather than trying to lift the snow to remove it, you exert less energy thereby placing less stress on your body.

TIP #6: Drink up! Water that is. Take frequent breaks and stay hydrated. You should drink water as if you were enduring a tough workout at the gym or running five miles.

TIP #7: Don't play in traffic. Sometimes people get so focused on the task at hand they don't pay attention to their surroundings. When shoveling snow near streets, pay attention to the traffic since vehicles may not have good traction in the snow and ice.

TIP #8: Call and text. It is important to have your cell phone on you so you can make a call in event of an emergency.

Following these tips will hopefully help you get through this blizzard safely. Or you can do what I do now...Leave the shoveling to the kids, one day they'll thank you for it.

More From The Wolf