Since it has been a while since you shoveled snow and dealt with snowy and icy conditions, here are some tips to stay safe this weekend during Winter Storm Jonas.
1. Dress warm
Sounds like a no-brainer, but the temperature during most winter storms is usually quite bearable, in the low to mid 30s. And combined with the exertion of shoveling snow, bundling up from head to toe isn't always a necessity.
Now throw that out the window, at least for today. The winds are expected to be whipping, with gusts up to 50 mph — so cover up.
No one wants to shovel twice, but the best advice for those of us who want to relax the rest of the day pain-free is to keep up with the falling snow. So, just like Hudson County residents vote, get out there early and often.
2. Lift the snow as little as possible and use your legs
Why carry a load of snow away from your driveway or walkway when you can push it most of the way? And when you do lift it, bend. A clear driveway doesn't have to cost you an aching back.
3. Get someone to help you
The largest job is cut in
half with someone sharing your pain. Better yet, get a
snowblower, but that comes with its own set of possible problems.
4. Snowblower safety
If you are using a snowblower, it's a good idea to start it ahead of time to make sure it's in working order. If it's too late, as least make sure you have solid footing when you start it up. Can't blow that snow from your backside!
Also — another no-brainer — don't drink when working and don't stick your hand into the moving parts. Shut off the snowblower if you want to clear the chute of ice and debris. And we are speaking from experience here, pick up the newspaper from the driveway before you start.
5. Have your cellphone handy
If you're not calling someone to help, you may need it to call someone for help. You know, in case you need to make the "I've-fallen-and-I can't-get-up" call.
On a related note, we know there isn't much place to throw the snow, but the middle of the street isn't the answer. Besides, it's against the law.
And when you carved out that street parking space, remember one thing: it isn't yours. No cones, no chairs, no portable grills blocking the space will make it yours. Besides ... it's against the law.
