SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- With all the snow Michiana has seen this past month, letting it pile up is not the best idea. While shoveling is instinctual, shovelers must be careful not to overexert themselves. Doctor David Bertoncini, from the South Bend Clinic, explains the risks of shoveling people don’t always consider.
"The first thing, of course, and maybe the common sense, stay warm, gloves, hat,” Bertoncini says. “Exposed areas will get frostbite, especially when temperatures get to five degrees; wind chill gets closer to negative fifteen negative twenty."
While cold weather injuries -- like frost bite and hypothermia -- should be top of mind when shoveling, heart attacks are just as consequential.
"If you have heart disease and you don't have to shovel your snow, if you can hire someone to shovel snow for you have a family member shovel the snow," Doctor Bertoncini urges.
Snow texture and consistency do make a difference. Wet snow with a higher moisture content is heavy and will cause more strain when clearing. Dry, fluffy snow is lighter; but if a lot has fallen, it could still cause exhaustion.
Another important aspect Doctor Bertoncini addresses is dressing in layers to stay warm.
Gloves, scarves, and face masks are all important in below-freezing temperatures. He says athletic compression clothes under a warm coat will keep people warm and help keep the sweat away to avoid overheating.
Dr. Bertoncini also says it is important to take breaks, to allow ease on your heart and body.
"Ten to fifteen minutes and take a break for fifteen minutes before you go back out. If the snow is heavy. Try to push the snow instead of lifting it easier for on your heart, easier on your back."
It is important to pay attention to how the body signals when it is too cold or tired. This will keep people safe in cold temperatures and while doing outdoor chores.