Winter Weather Safety Tips Before Shoveling Snow In NoVA

LOUDOUN, VA — This week's weather forecast predicts the year's first snowstorm for parts of Northern Virginia, primarily in Loudoun, Fairfax, and Arlington. To help residents prepare for the occasion, Patient First has shared a few tips to keep residents safe as they brace for this week's seasonal weather.

If snowfall accumulates on walkways, shoveling snow becomes a necessary evil. It's hard work and potentially dangerous, but there are ways to mitigate the stress of shoveling. According to Patient First, it's safest to shovel snow as early as possible. After the powder starts to accumulate, it can refreeze and form icy chunks, which are heavier to move than the freshly fallen snowflakes.

Patient First also recommends ensuring proper hydration before shoveling and warming up slowly. A quick activity like jumping jacks or jogging in place helps to get the blood flowing and reduce the risk of spraining or pulling a muscle while shoveling.

Given the often difficult nature of shoveling snow, Patient First also recommends that individuals with a history of heart disease, high blood pressure, or strokes avoid shoveling snow entirely. These individuals are more likely to face a medical emergency while shoveling.

The other major risk of winter weather is the dread patches of ice that crop up on sidewalks and roadways. It's easy to overlook a patch of ice and suffer a dangerous fall. It's best to avoid icy areas entirely, but if you are unsure if a spot is slippery, you can tap the edge of the area with your foot to check.

See also: Winter Weather Advisory Expanded To More Areas Of NoVA

Maintaining balance is also pivotal in preventing slips and falls caused by ice, according to Patient First. To increase your chances of staying upright, they recommend keeping your hands out of your pockets whenever possible. Additionally, they note that carrying heavy objects can change your center of balance and increase the likelihood of a fall.

With the National Weather Service expanding the area's winter weather advisory, these tips may be needed this week.