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Stay Safe in the Snow This Winter

(ARA) – When the forecast calls for snow, thoughts turn to skiing, ice skating and making snowmen. But first you have to get down the sidewalk and out of the driveway. When flakes turn into drifts, clearing snow by shoveling or with a snow thrower is a winter necessity, so it’s important to be safe.

Jason Cameron, home expert and TV personality, knows that life doesn’t stop when it snows. As a carpenter and avid outdoorsman, he’s got great tips to share about how to stay safe in the snow this winter.

Bundle Up
Before you even get outside it’s important to cover yourself (and your family members) in thin layers to stay dry and warm and to keep frostbite away. Avoid long scarves or baggy clothing that can get caught in outdoor power machines.

Scope the Snow
Once you’re outdoors, assess the snow. Wet, slushy snow is heavier to remove and can cause severe back injuries. Hard or icy snow may be lighter, but the slickness makes it dangerous to travel through.

Snow Thrower Safety
Snow thrower injuries send about 5,000 people to the emergency room each year, according to the Consumer Product Safety Commission. “Snow throwers are a quick and powerful way to clear snow, but if you don’t use them properly you can really get hurt,” says Cameron.  

Cameron has partnered with MTD -- a leader in safe, easy-to-use and durable outdoor power equipment -- and says when it comes to using snow throwers, it’s important to be SMART:

* SAFETY is paramount. Before you get started, review your operator’s manual. You can also visit SnowThrowerSafety.com for safety and maintenance information.

* MAINTENANCE should take place before you use your snow thrower for the first time this season. To ensure the longevity of your machine, always use fresh fuel, replace your spark plug before each season, check your belts for fraying or cracking and check all controls for proper operation.

* AUGERS and fingers don’t mix. Never place hands or fingers near a moving auger or impeller and always shut off your engine before unclogging any debris or snow.

* REPLACE worn or damaged parts.

* TAKE the time to do it right. Follow all safety precautions and keep your machine properly maintained. Also make sure your tires are properly inflated. Never use an air compressor or you risk over-inflation and the tire could burst.

For those without a snow thrower, Cameron reminds people to take care when shoveling snow. Anyone with a history of heart problems should talk with their doctor before shoveling and everyone should make sure to lift heavy snow by bending at the knees, not with the back.

For more information on removing snow safely, visit SnowThrowerSafety.com.

Courtesy of ARAcontent