Repost
**** Via NSHA
Snow safety and snow shovelling tips:
1. The Blade. A larger bladed shovel is great for pushing light snow to the side – the best method of snow clearing. Use a small (25-35 cm wide) blade for lifting.
2. Shaft: Pick either a straight shaft or a simple ergonomic shaft. Don’t go for fancy gadgets or unusual designs – most aren’t as good a sa regular shovel.
3. Take it Easy: Shovel no faster than 15 scoops per minute.
4. Go Light: If you are lifting and throwing snow, stay light: No more than 5-7 kg per load, including the shovel. Wet snow is heavy!
Shovelling can be a good way to get some exercise for healthy people and light shovelling is considered moderate physical activity. However, shovelling, especially when in a rush, can lead to complications, such as heart attacks.
Think twice before shovelling if you:
– have existing health problems,
– are older, or
– are at risk of a heart attack due to previous attacks, smoking, have a sedentary lifestyle, or have a family or personal history of heart disease.
