Snow Blower Safety 101

The temperatures are falling and winter is coming. Remember these safety tips to make snow removal with a snow blower less painful.

• Read the instructions and all precautions. Make sure you’re confident in using the snow blower if you’ve never used one before, because serious injuries could occur. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, since 2003 more than 9000 Americans have lost fingers because of snow blowers.
• Ensure your property is clear of objects that could get pulled into the snow blower. Objects that get pulled into the snow blower could explode from the chute, causing injury.
• Never attempt to remove objects or ice/snow build up while the machine is on. This is how most injuries and amputations occur. If you need to remove something from the machine, make sure it is shut off and use a long screwdriver or garden tool to clear obstructions. NEVER use your hands!
• Take breaks to prevent overexertion. Overexertion is common for people of all ages when removing snow and can even lead to heart attacks. Each year, about 100 Americans die from cardiac arrest due to snow removal.