6 Steps You Need to Take Before Shoveling Snow

1. Check in With Yourself

This step is the most important. Depending on your age and your current health, shoveling snow may not even be something you can do on your own. Be honest with yourself as you assess your health to make sure that you can handle the exertion required for this task.

If you have a previous injury, heart problems, or a respiratory issue, it’s a good idea to outsource this task to someone else. Whether that means asking your neighbor for a helping hand or hiring someone to complete the task for you, you must take care of yourself first before heading out. If you are in good health and feel strong enough to take on the task, continue with the steps below.

2. Check the Weather and Collaborate With the Sun

You might have your own plans for when you can shovel snow, but you should check the weather forecast to make sure that you’re not going out on an especially blistery day. When you know the weather is going to be decent enough for you to head outdoors for the task, plan to shovel snow mid-morning. At this time, the frigid overnight temperatures start to warm up a little bit and the sun is working in your favor, helping to prevent black ice from forming after you’re done shoveling the snow.

3. Complete Your Morning Routine

Since you’ll be starting mid-morning, you have the morning time to wake up, get something filling in your belly for energy, and get properly dressed before heading outside. Do some light stretches before you step out to get your body warmed up and prevent injuries. Even though it’s going to be freezing out there, you’re going to be sweating as you exert yourself. So, don’t bundle up too much.

4. Get Your (Weather Appropriate) Shoes On

You won’t be bundling up too much, but you need to ensure proper footwear. Whether you are wearing boots or shoes, you must ensure that they are properly insulated. You’re going to be facing snow and slush, so they must be water-resistant as well. You’re likely to encounter some slippery areas so take a good look at the traction on the soles to make sure that you’ll be all set once you step foot outside.

5. Prepare Your Tools

Make sure you have some deicer with you so that you can spread it in highly slippery areas. Then, when you’re done, use the deicer to spread on the newly shoveled areas to create some traction and prevent ice. Along with the deicer, make sure that you have a solid shovel. It should be lightweight and with a surface that prevents sticking so you’re not having to exert yourself more just to shake the snow off. Make sure the design is ergonomic so you can reduce the risk of injury.

6. Employ Proper Technique

Your instinct may be to lift the snow and throw it, but you should be pushing the snow to clear the path. This ensures that you’re not bending your back in any unnecessary ways. Additionally, the way you hold your shovel should be sturdy. Keep your hands at a distance and be mindful of your posture. Bend your knees when you’re exerting yourself and use your legs along with your shoulders, so you don’t put strain on your back. By employing the proper technique, you make the task a bit easier and keep yourself from getting hurt.