As winter weather descends, so does the snow. Knowing how to keep safe and avoid dangerous equipment may save your health in snowy months to come.
During the winter season, moving snow is a necessity for many people. Digging out a car or driveway takes time and energy. For those unaccustomed to the strain of manual shoveling, the exertion could lead to cardiac strain, a visit to the emergency room and even a fatal heart attack.
Be prepared this season, know your limits and be aware of the dangers of clearing snow manually or by machine. Consider:
- A Consumer Reports articles provide tips for evaluating snow blowers and cautions those with heart disease, hypertension and diabetes to consider getting help clearing the snow.
- For those who already own snow blowers, be sure your machine is tuned and ready for the season before the snow falls. Add gas to your snow blower when it is cool, not during operation. If you own an electric snow blower, be sure the extension cord is rated for outdoor use and is in good repair. While using the blower, be sure to keep the cord away from the blades.
- If you own an older snow blower, make sure it is not an MTD Snow Thrower. Approximately 130,000 of these units were recalled in 2006 and may still be stored in garages or available at garage sales. The plastic rims of the wheels are prone to explosion if the tires are overinflated and can shrapnel into those nearby.
Snow throwers can be a great help, but they can also cause significant damage. Follow instructions and stay away from recalled devices. If injured in Chicago, contact an experienced injury attorney at Dolan Law.