Warning: Take it easy when shoveling

Heavy, wet snow could be hazardous to your health

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The heavy, wet snow that fell on the Five Towns is not only hazardous when driving, but danger lurks when shoveling.

For every 5 inches of snow there is a 1-inch liquid equivalent. At least 8 inches coated the area. This type of snow is called “heart-attack snow.” Shoveling could trigger heart attacks, especially in people with heart issues. (On a personal note, shoveling the driveway last night and cleaning off then moving a car was hard work for this middle-aged man).

Nearly 100 people – mostly men – die annually in the U.S. during or after shoveling snow, according to a study reported in the Canadian Medical Association Journal. The study also reported that such activity also led to an increase in hospitalizations and deaths because of hearts attacks in men.

Should you think that shoveling could increase the chance you suffer a health problem, hire someone to shovel out the driveway.

If you have to shovel, take it slow, take breaks often and hydrate immediately afterwards.