Shoveling snow incorrectly can result in injuries and even fatalities. Each winter, around 100 people in the United States die while shoveling snow due to the physical strain it imposes. Adjusting your shoveling technique can make the task easier, quicker, and prevent backaches. Here are some tips for efficiently shoveling your sidewalk and driveway.
Improving your equipment can significantly impact how effectively you clear snow and reduce strain on your body. Various hand attachments are available on the market that allows for better hand positioning. Some shovels come with multiple handles, making it easier to break up snow or ice.
To prevent snow from sticking to your shovel, consider spraying it with cooking spray, applying vegetable oil, or waxing it. Reapply the spray or oil if the snow starts to stick. Placing socks over your boots may improve traction on slippery surfaces, according to a study.
Rolling snow into a ball like making a snowman can be an effective way to clear your driveway or sidewalk if the snow is the right consistency. Using a leaf blower on thin snow can be efficient, but avoid using electric blowers on wet snow to prevent potential hazards.
For a hassle-free alternative to shoveling, lay down a tarp to easily transport snow to a designated area.
Pick up and remove snow after each snowfall. Lay down a tarp or plastic sheet on your sidewalk, driveway, or vehicle. Opt for smaller tarps if you anticipate heavy snowfall, as they are easier to maneuver. Attach handles made of rope, twine, or string to make moving the tarp more manageable. In windy conditions, secure the tarp with weights to prevent it from blowing away. Follow Judy Ross’s lead, who gained online fame for her frustration with shoveling snow, by investing in a heated mat for your driveway, sidewalk, or stairs. These mats use heated water tubes or electric cables to melt snow and ice. For additional safety tips and preparation advice, visit AccuWeather.com/Ready. For premium, ad-free content and advanced severe weather alerts tailored to your location, consider upgrading to Premium+ on the AccuWeather app. AccuWeather Alerts™ are issued by our experienced meteorologists who continuously monitor and assess hazardous weather conditions to keep you and your loved ones safe.
