Did you know that shoveling snow sends more then 11,000 adult and children to the hospital every year? Christmas and New Years have passed, but there’s still fifty more days of winter left in the season. And you can be sure that the Mid-Atlantic region will see plenty of snow before it’s over. So to help prevent snow shoveling injuries, Lehnoff’s Landscaping, is here with tips on how to safely deal with the snow on your sidewalk and driveway.
Equip Yourself
It’s important to dress appropriately for the job you intend to do, but when shoveling your driveway and side walk this is especially so. Wear gloves that are think enough to protect your hands from the cold, but dexterous enough to wield a shovel. Your feat should be covered with well-fit waterproof boots, complete with soles that still have good traction. When you’re shoveling snow it’s important to wear multiple layers, because, while it may start cold, you can quickly over-heat with the work exertion. Start with a layer of long underwear, then regular pants and shirt, followed by sweater, snow pants, and on the top layer a waterproof winter coat. Finally, to top everything off you should wear a warm hat, preferably waterproof if it’s still snowing.
For shoveling you should make sure make sure the shovel is the right size for you. If you’re short, a long shovel handle can be unwieldy; while if you’re tall a short shovel can quickly make the task miserable. You should also make sure the scoop of the shovel isn’t too large for you to handle, otherwise you may end up straining yourself.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
It goes without saying that where there’s snow, there will be ice. Keep a careful watch out for ice on your porch, sidewalk, walkway, and driveway. This is especially true the day after a snow, when the snow has had a chance to melt and refreeze. And while you’re minding the ground, shoveling your front walkway, don’t forget to look up, as a icicles formed on your roof eaves are potentially serious hazards.
Don’t Overexert Yourself
If you have a history of heart problems, strokes, seizures, or are pregnant you should not shovel. If you are fit to shovel, make sure you keep in mind the strain on your body as you work, make sure you’re hydrated, and that you aren’t lifting too much. It wouldn’t do you much good shoveling snow to get to work, if you pull your back while you’re doing it.
Call Lehnhoff’s Landscaping for Snow Removal
If your driveway is large, the strain too much, or if you don’t have the time, Lehnoff’s Landscaping is here to help. We provide professional snow removal and landscaping services for all ofMaryland. Our teams of snow removal experts manage everything from plowing, to shoveling, to ice scraping. We have years and years of experience in removing snow from parking lots, roads, sidewalks, as well as salting and ice melting.
Our snow removal plans and planting services will ensure that no matter what time of year it is, your property will be stunning and safe. If you have any more questions about snow removal in Baltimore, contact Lehnhoff’s Landscaping by Calling 443.921.5789 or visit LehnoffsLandscaping.com today!
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