Back to top

Encompass® Insurance Insights & Articles



Tips for Shoveling Snow Safely

A winter wonderland may look beautiful but shoveling all that snow is no easy task. In fact, the CDC reports that Harvard Medical School found shoveling snow for just 30 minutes burns 266 calories, similar to other strenuous exercises. Before you grab your shovel this winter, these are some tips to keep in mind to reduce the risk for injury and back pain.

Person shoveling snow.

Prep before the snowfall. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and salt your walkways and driveway before snowfall begins. Doing so can help improve grip, reduce slippage, and increase the snow's melting point — three things that will make shoveling snow a bit easier.

Wax your shovel before use. Use a shovel with a thin, plastic blade — this weighs less than a metal blade and will be easier to lift repeatedly. Apply a thin layer of car wax or floor wax to your shovel. This will help the snow slip off easily and quickly. When possible, try to push the snow off a pathway or driveway rather than having to lift and toss the snow.

Use the right form. Shoveling hundreds of pounds of snow and slush can put a serious strain on your back. To reduce the risk of injury and pain, practice proper form: Stand with your feet hip-width apart for good balance, bend at the knees and lift from your legs. As you lift, keep the shovel blade close to your body, which reduces back strain. If necessary, turn your entire body rather than twisting from the waist, which can aggravate back pain. Take a break from shoveling every 10-15 minutes to stand up straight and stretch your body.

Dress in warm layers. Like any outdoor activity in the winter, layers are key to keeping your body comfortably protected from the elements without overheating. Opt for a moisture-wicking base layer followed by a lightweight fleece or wool mid-layer. Finish with a waterproof, windproof exterior layer that can be removed if you start to overheat. Wear wool socks rather than cotton socks. Cotton becomes damp quickly and dries slowly, increasing the risk for blisters on your feet.

Shovel smartly. Assess the conditions before getting started. Thick, wet snow can be heavier to lift, for example, and more than six inches of snow can be difficult to clear off the ground in a single scoop. If the snow is deep or dense, shovel off a top layer first and then go back to clear all the way to the ground.

Start early and take it slow. Don't wait until a big storm is done dumping 2+ feet of snow on the ground to start shoveling. If conditions allow, shovel midday during a snowfall, even if more snow is expected in the evening or overnight. Clearing lighter snow in smaller increments, rather than one long stretch, reduces the risk for over-exertion.


Family in the kitchen.

Cover home, auto & more.

Encompass Insurance offers protection for the things that matter most.

Find an agent

The general information contained in The Encompass Blog is provided as a courtesy, and is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The contents of this website are subject to periodic change without notice. Information provided on The Encompass Blog is not intended to replace official sources. Although attempts will be made to ensure that the information is accurate and timely, the information is presented "as is" and without warranties. Information contained on The Encompass Blog should not be mistaken for professional advice. Information contained herein should not be considered error-free and should not be used as the exclusive basis for decision-making. Use of website information is strictly voluntary and at the user's sole risk. We encourage you to obtain personal advice from qualified professionals when making decision regarding your specific situation.

Other resources linked from these pages are maintained by independent providers. The Encompass Blog does not monitor all linked resources and cannot guarantee their accuracy. Statements, views and opinions included in an independent provider's material are strictly those of the author(s). These views may not necessarily represent the opinions or policies of The Encompass Blog, the Encompass family of companies or its agents, officers or employees.

ECC Monitor: OK