With more snow in the forecast, it’s important to review safe practices when it comes to snow removal. 

According to the National Safety Council, as many as 100 people around the country die annually from injuries suffered from snow shoveling. There are also many common injuries that can result from snow removal. Eric Turner, Co-Owner of Jet Physical Therapy, tells individuals about the precautions to take if you are outside, “Well first I think people need to know their limitations and their boundaries. Some individuals based on their physical abilities just shouldn’t be outdoors when it’s icy, slippery, with deep snow, those kinds of things. Secondly, kind of planning ahead. Maybe if they need to go somewhere that you go a little bit earlier so you don’t have to be in a hurry. Oftentimes, under slick slippery conditions, when you’re more likely to be rushed, or if you are in a rush, you’re more likely to have a fall. So being able to take your time, shorten up your steps in slippery conditions. It may not make it foolproof that a fall doesn’t occur, but it certainly can help reduce the risks.”

Going out without warming your body up can cause muscle injuries that can linger well past the day of injury. Another crucial safety tip is not to work past exhaustion and to take breaks as needed.