Winter is among us up here in Canada and if you have the responsibility in shoveling snow off your property this year then read on as this article applies to you.
Throughout our decade long experience we have had the privilege of shoveling snow for many commercial buildings, prestigious institutions, and private homes. What we have learned throughout the years is that there is a correct method of removing snow and an incorrect method. Acknowledging this can save you much time, energy, and pain in making shoving snow an enjoyable activity.
Getting Started
The first thing you will need to get started is preparing your winter gear. On top of the list is having good, sturdy boots with good traction to avoid any slippage or falls. You would also need a good winter jacket, preferably one designed to withstand minus 20 and 30 degrees Celsius (or 68 to 86 Fahrenheit) temperatures. A winter tuque and gloves is also highly recommended to avoid frostbite in sensitive skins areas. While it is important to dress appropriately, you don’t want to over dress so as to prevent too much sweat build up on your skin as this prevents chills and colds later on.
It is also highly recommended, and we have always put into practise doing a few stretching exercises BEFORE you start any strenuous activity like snow shoveling.
Choosing the right equipment
They are basically a few basic tools that are required to start off. You would need a good sturdy solid shovel, preferably an ergonomic one as these types of shovels give you a good posture to start with making the job a lot easier and preventing any back and muscle aches and strains. (Check your local home hardware store for top brands and models). It also good to have a good metal scraper that would help you to scrape off chucks of ice from the ground.
They are basically two types of shovels that we recommend, we like to call them pullers and lifters. Puller shovels are ones with curve blades and are wider in length. They help pull and push the snow off the ground much easier than a lifter shovel. Lifter shovels are often smaller in size and generally require you to lift the snow up and deposit it at another location. Both types of shovels come in both metal and plastic forms.
Your Health and Safety is important
Shoveling snow isn’t for everyone, especially for those who have heart or respiratory problems or any other medical condition of such sort. If you find yourself with health limitation, please do take it slow in shoveling snow off your property. If the task is to much, there are plenty of snow removal or janitorial services who can handle this responsibility for you. There is also the option of hiring a student(s) to do the job for you at a minimal cost.
Tackling the job
So, you have your winter gear on and your shovel in hand, the first thing you want to do is spray a little silicon lubricant or WD-40 on the front of the shovel. This will help the snow to easily slide of the shovel and this way you avoid carrying excess snow on the shovel itself. This method is totally optional but beneficial to make the job a lot easier.
The key to snow shoveling is working in sections. Remove one section at a time until the job is completed. If you encounter ice patches on the ground along the way try removing them with your metal scraper. If the ice is too solid and big throw some de-icer salt on the ground and wait a while before making another attempt.
Perhaps the single most important rule in snow shoveling that I can convey to anyone out there is to always lift and throw the snow with your legs rather than your back. You never want to put any pressure or strain on your back. I can’t tell you how many times we have witnessed and experienced professional contractors who developed minor and major back health problems because of this procedural method. Never, ever lift with your back. It’s a recipe for disaster.
It’s important throughout this task that if you ever find yourself fatigue or have a hard time breathing by all means take a break. Go inside a warm shelter to warm up and drink plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated. If you feel any kind of pain, STOP, and seek medical attention.
When your finished clearing your snow of your property and depending on the weather temperature I always recommend laying down some de-icer salt especially in high traffic or public areas to avoid pedestrian slips and falls.
Reward Yourself
When the job is done feel free to reward yourself with your favorite hot beverage. This would keep you motivated for your next snow shoveling experience.
RL Maintenance
“If it’s dirty,..we’ll help you clean it”
