Before you go outside to remove snow and ice take a few minutes to warm up your muscles by doing light exercise or stretching. Dress in layers of light weight clothing with a water repellent or waterproof outer layer. Wear mittens or gloves, a hat or other type of head covering, warm socks and waterproof boots with slip resistant soles.

Snow Removal

• When using a snow shovel make sure the shovel fits your body size and your level of strength. Choose a snow shovel that is comfortable to use and is not too long or too heavy.
• Whenever possible use the snow shovel to push the snow instead of lifting it.
• If you are using the snow shovel to lift the snow, do not overload it. Snow is much heavier than it looks.
• Remove very deep snow in layers, instead of trying to shovel from the ground.
• When you are shoveling, keep your back straight, squat down with your legs separated and your knees bent.
• Do not throw the shovelfuls of snow over your shoulder or to the side. Instead carry them to where you want to place the snow. Keep your arms close to your body instead of outstretched when carrying shovelfuls of snow. Doing this reduces stress placed on your back and spine.
• When operating a snow blower or an electric snow shovel wear eye protection.
• Do not use your hands or feet to remove a blockage in a snow blower. Turn the snow blower off, wait a few seconds and remove the blockage using a stick or other solid object.
• Never let a child operate a snow blower.
• Always be aware of the location of the electric cord if you are using an electric powered snow blower or snow shovel.
• If you are using a gas powered snow blower, do not start it up or run it inside a house, garage or shed.
• If you must add gas to the snow blower's engine make sure the engine is turned off. Never add gas to a hot engine.

Ice Removal

When walking watch out for black ice. The almost invisible coating of ice can accumulates on almost any type of surface including steps, decks, sidewalks and driveways. Black ice can cause serious injury from slips and falls.

• Putting a layer of rock salt (sodium chloride) on icy areas is an effective way to melt the ice. However, rock salt can cause damage to concrete and metal surfaces and is also harmful to plants.
• Magnesium chloride is less corrosive that other chemical products and works well for melting ice.
• Before using any ice melting products read the labels carefully. Many chemical ice melting products are harmful to animals and plants. Others can cause damage to porous materials such as concrete, brick or wood.
• Sprinkle a layer of sand, bird seed, non-clumping natural kitty litter or cracked corn on decks and other areas for traction. These products do not melt the ice
• Remove any hanging icicles from roof edges and gutters to prevent injuries to children and pets when they fall.

Shoveling snow is a very strenuous winter activity. When you are shoveling snow, it is very important to follow safety tips for cleaning up snow and ice at home and not to overexert yourself. Take time to go inside and warm up and give your body a chance to rest. If you have any medical conditions, check with your doctor to make sure it is all right for you to shovel snow. Whether you are using a snow blower, a snow shovel or are spreading a layer of natural cat litter on your deck, stop immediately if you experience any chest pain and seek medical help right away.