Have fun in the snow, but be safe--Winter Safety Tips

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) just issued a press release that has some great winter safety tips. With all the snowy and icy weather that is affecting a huge chunk of the country, I thought I'd share some safety tips with you. These tips come straight from the press release. A link to the full release is at the bottom of the list, as well as links to some other great winter safety information.

SLEDDING SAFETY TIPS:

- Don't sled near or on public streets. Sled only in designated and approved areas where there are no obstacles in the sledding path.
- Sit in a forward-facing position and steer using your feet or the rope steering handles.
- Children should wear a helmet while sledding and should always be supervised by parents or other adults.
- Carry a cell phone in case there is an emergency.

WINTER SAFETY TIPS FROM THE AAOS:

- Check snow and ice conditions before heading out to take part in outdoor activities. Pay attention to news warnings about storms and severe drops in temperature.
- Don't drink or smoke before going outside in the cold. Alcohol, nicotine and caffeine increase the risk of cold injury to the skin.
- If you get wet, get inside as quickly as possible and remove your wet clothes.
- Don't forget about frostbite, and check yourself every half-hour for signs. Go inside if your toes, fingers, ears or other parts of your body become numb.

SHOVELING/SNOWBLOWING SAFETY TIPS:

- Clear snow early and often. Begin when a light covering of snow is on the ground to avoid trying to clear packed, heavy snow.
- Use a shovel that is comfortable for your height and strength. Do not use a shovel that is too heavy or too long for you. Consider buying a shovel that is specially designed to prevent too much stooping. Space your hands on the tool grip to increase your leverage.
- Push the snow instead of lifting it, as much as you can. If you must lift, take small amounts of snow, and lift it with your legs: Squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight. Lift by straightening your legs, without bending at the waist. Then walk to where you want to dump the snow; holding a shovelful of snow with your arms outstretched puts too much weight on your spine.
- Do not throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side. This requires a twisting motion that stresses your back.
- Never stick your hands or feet in the snow blower! If snow becomes impacted, stop the engine and wait at least five seconds. Use a solid object to clear wet snow or debris from the chute.
- Beware of the recoil of the motor and blades after the machine has been turned off.

Above information taken from: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Press Release, February 1, 2011

For more information from the AAOS:

Sledding Safety

Winter Sports Safety

Prevent Snow Shoveling and Snow Blowing Injuries