You would think shoveling snow is as easy as it sounds, but there is a process to go through to make it safe and efficient. This is the proper way to shovel snow!

Safety

1. Proper clothing. Check to see how cold it is outside and dress in layers. You will get warm as you shovel snow. If that happens, just go inside, take some of your layered clothing off, drink some fluids, and stretch a little before going back out.  Make sure you have boots that are warm, waterproof is better, and having good traction soles will keep your feet warm, dry and avoid slipping.
2. Have suitable gloves that will keep your hands warm. Make sure you wear a hat to keep your head warm and if it is really cold, wear earmuffs to keep your ears warm.

Health

1. Make sure you are comfortable and consider the health risks. Most people are not used to shoveling, so make sure your physical body is up for a little workout. Know your body’s limitations. Don’t overexert yourself, especially if you have a heart problem. A little exercise is good for you, but it can hurt you if you are not in shape. 
2. Go slow and take breaks. Use proper leverage to shovel so you don’t strain your back or other body parts that you might hurt!
3. If you are not sure, maybe you should hire someone to do the shoveling. Do some stretching to warm up your body muscles before you start.

Equipment

There are generally two types of shovels, one for pushing snow and one for digging snow. The most used one is the digging shovel. It might be useful to have one of each. That way, you will be prepared for whatever is best for the job.

1. Select a shove with a bend in the handle designed to make it easier for you to shovel. Plastic shovels are lighter and allow the snow to slide off them better.
2. The smaller the shovel scoop or blade, the easier it is to lift. It is good to spray on some nonstick lubricant or nonstick cooking oil. This will allow the snow to slide off of the surface easier when tossing the snow to the side.

Getting started

1. Keep good body posture- bend knees, not the back. Keep the shovel close to the body; this will give you better leverage and avoid back pain.

2. Scope out what you are going to do before you start. It is best to start in the middle area you want to clear and cast the snow in the wind’s direction. This will make throwing the snow more efficient. Once you finish removing enough snow for half the area you want to clean, remove the snow from the other half of the area you want to remove. Again, only shovel out a space big enough for where you need to walk, drive or park. There is no need to do any more shoveling since it will eventually melt.

3. If the snow is deep, only shovel out enough snow so it is not too heavy to put a strain on you. Once you get it close to the ground, it would be a good idea to spread some sand or kitty litter for better traction. Using salt is bad for any concrete. It will only cause damage to your concrete which you will need to be replaced in the future.

After you have done it a few times, you will become a master at it! Just remember, the older you get, the less forgiving your body is, so take it slow. Be safe and enjoy the outdoors.

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