Winter Snow Storm Safety: Preventing Injuries During Snow Removal

Winter storms bring a range of safety challenges. Roads become more hazardous, slips and falls increase, and snow removal itself can pose significant risks.

In our experience, most snow‑removal–related claims stem from slips and falls while shoveling. However, employees are also vulnerable to back and shoulder injuries—and in rarer cases, cardiac events. Nationally, snow shoveling is linked to approximately 100 deaths per year. This figure comes from data reviewed by Nationwide Children’s Hospital and reported in a 2025 analysis.

Cold weather can elevate heart rate and blood pressure, constrict blood vessels, and increase the likelihood of blood clotting. Combined with the physical strain of shoveling, these factors significantly raise the risk of a heart attack.

Shoveling Safety Tips from the National Safety Council

To help reduce the risk of injury:

• Avoid shoveling immediately after eating or while smoking
• Warm up and stretch before starting
• Begin slowly and take frequent breaks
• Shovel fresh, powdery snow—it’s lighter
• Push snow instead of lifting when possible
• If lifting, use a small shovel or only partially fill it
• Lift with your legs, not your back
• Stop before you reach the point of exhaustion
• Know the warning signs of heart attack, and call 911 immediately if symptoms occur—every minute counts

Additional Tips to Prevent Injury

• Use an ergonomically designed shovel to reduce bending
• During major storms, shovel periodically to avoid removing very deep snow all at once
• Wear layered clothing so you can adjust as your body warms up
• Stay hydrated—cold, dry air combined with exertion can quickly lead to dehydration

Considering a Snow Blower?

Snow blowers can reduce some of the cardiac strain associated with shoveling, but they come with their own hazards. For more information, read our Snow Blower Safety Blog Postto learn how to use these machines safely.

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For additional safety tips and accident prevention strategies, visit our Resource & Education page or contact our safety specialist Ray Sullivan atraymonds@friedlandergroup.com.