Choose the Right Tool for Shoveling Snow
Having the right snow shovel is key to reducing exertion and efficiently moving the snow.
- Choose between a lightweight plastic snow shovel and a durable steel snow shovel.
- Look for ergonomic snow shovels that can reduce bending and back strain.
- Make sure the handle length gives you good leverage and allows you to work comfortably.
- Consider a D-handle grip for better control and a cushioned-grip handle for added comfort.
- Select a handle that’s comfortable to hold, making sure that the size is not too big or small for you to easily grip.
- A larger shovel blade pushes more snow and can become heavy so choose a size that’s easy to manage.
- Wheeled show shovels make pushing snow easier.
See our snow shovel guide for tips on choosing a shovel that lets you work comfortably and efficiently.
Shoveling snow can be strenuous. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations about physical exercise and exertion. If the work is too difficult or you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, enlist a helper or hire someone to remove the snow for you.
Dress Right for Shoveling Snow
Your workwear should protect you from the cold and snow but also keep you from getting too hot as the work warms you up.
- Wear water-resistant shoes or boots to keep your feet dry and make sure they have good traction to reduce the risk of slipping.
- Find the best gloves for shoveling snow — work gloves that are insulated, keep your hands dry and make it easy to grip the snow shovel handle.
- Dress in layers so you can remove a layer or two as you shovel and warm up.
Frostbite, hypothermia and even overheating can be concerns with strenuous work in subfreezing temperatures. Keep an eye on the temperature and windchill. Make sure your clothing is suited to the conditions, but don’t allow yourself to become overheated. Pay attention to how you’re feeling and add or remove layers if you begin to feel too cold or warm.
Shovel Snow the Right Way
You may be less likely to notice you’re losing fluids and exerting yourself in sub-freezing temperatures, so plan your work to protect yourself.
- Drink plenty of fluids and warm up your joints and muscles with light activity before you start shoveling.
- Start early, before the snow accumulates too much.
- Snow shoveling is vigorous exercise — rest frequently and don’t overexert yourself.
- Go out several times over the course of a snowfall to create natural breaks and to reduce the chances of the snow icing over or getting packed down.
- Push the snow rather than lifting it to reduce exertion and back strain.
- If you do have to lift the snow, bend your knees and lift with your legs, not your back.
- Take regular breaks to rehydrate and replenish the fluids you sweat away.
Be careful of icy spots around the work area and under the snow. Put down sand, if necessary, for better traction.
Use Ice Melt After Shoveling Snow
Shoveling doesn’t always remove all the snow, so you might need to take some time to keep it from refreezing into a sheet of ice.
- After shoveling, consider spreading ice melt.
- Choose the right ice melt for your application to reduce the risk of damage to your lawn, sidewalk and driveway.
- Protect yourself with safety glasses, work gloves and footwear that has good traction.
- Consider using a garden spreader to spread the material easily and evenly.
- Sweep up any ice melt that spills and store it in the original container to minimize the risk of the material getting into nearby water sources.
Salt and other types of ice melt can be harmful to pets, concrete and plants. Follow the manufacturer’s use and safety instructions.
When to Get a Snow Blower
If you live in an area that receives frequent snowfalls, consider investing in a gas snow blower or a battery-powered snow blower. Read our snow blower guide and how-to on using a snow blower to get tips on choosing a snow blower and using it efficiently.