Shoveling snow has become a common chore this season, but it can cause significant injuries if not taken seriously. According to the National Safety Council snow shoveling is responsible for thousands of injuries and as many as 100 deaths each year in the United States. Some of the tips the NSC recommends are stretching before heading outside, push the snow instead of lifting it, and take breaks as needed.

It’s not uncommon to feel sore after shoveling your driveway, but Eric Turner from JET Physical Therapy strongly recommends monitoring your pain, “Men are pretty stubborn when it comes to receiving medical care. Someone that’s in pain that’s disturbing their sleep significantly, regardless of how they position, that’s an indication of someone who needs to have some medical evaluation sooner rather than later.”

Using a snowblower to remove snow has its own set of risks. The NSC suggests starting your snowblower outdoors to avoid carbon monoxide risks, keep your hands away from any blades while the snowblower is turned on, and never add fuel when it is running.