Every year hundreds of people injure their backs, or worse, by removing snow. Snow removal may be a necessity, but it is also a physical activity that should be carefully undertaken. Here are some tips to prevent injuries and help you enjoy the winter. Follow these safety tips from the National Safety Council:

• Dress warmly, paying special attention to feet, hands, nose and ears.
• Avoid shoveling snow if you are out of shape. If you have a history of heart
• trouble, do not shovel snow unless your doctor says it's okay.
• Do light warm-up exercises and stretches before shoveling and take frequent
• breaks.
• If possible, push snow in front of you. If you have to lift it, pick up small amounts
• and lift with your legs, not your back. Do not toss snow over your shoulder or to
• the side.
• Don't drink alcohol before or while shoveling snow. Never smoke while
• shoveling.
• Use rock salt or de-icing compounds to remove ice from steps, walkways and
• sidewalks. Sand placed on walkways may also help prevent slipping.
• If you use a snow blower, follow these safety guidelines:
  • Read the owner's manual before starting your snow blower. Make sure
  • you understand all the recommended safety steps.
  • Make sure all people and pets are out of the way before you begin.
  • Do not put your hand in the snow blower to remove impacted snow or debris. Turn the machine off and wait a few seconds. Then use a stick or broom handle to remove the material.
  • Do not leave the snow blower unattended when it is running.
  • Never let a child operate a snow blower.
  • Fill up with fuel before you start when the engine is cool.