As clean-up efforts are underway across West Virginia following significant snowfall from Winter Storm Jonas, you should be reminded to use caution during snow removal and debris clean-up. The risk of exertion brought on by shoveling large amounts of snow can cause serious health concern in addition to the potential for chain saw injury during any tree or debris removal.
Shoveling snow is hard work and can increase extra strain on the heart especially with the amount of snow that has fallen across West Virginia. If you experience heart disease or high blood pressure, you should follow your healthcare provider’s advice about shoveling snow or performing other hard work in the cold. Individuals that are not accustomed to strenuous work activity, should allow plenty of time to do the work and rest often. If clean-up includes using a chain saw, remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to be safe. You are encouraged to use a hard hat, safety glasses, ear plugs, thick work gloves, chaps, and boots. Remember to always hold the saw at waist level or below, and make sure that others remain far away. Bent trees or branches can also be an issue, especially if they have gotten twisted, hung up on, or caught under another object. If the tree or the branch is suddenly released, it may strike the person cutting it, or a bystander. If someone is cut, put direct pressure on the wound to stop bleeding and seek medical attention as soon as possible. Call 911 if needed.
Trees entangled in power lines must be deferred to the local power company.
Please stay safe during the storm clean-up and take all necessary precautions to help reduce your risk of injury.
As Winter Storm Jonas approaches, there is a potential for heavy snowfall, freezing rain or sleet and power outages.
Use caution if working outdoors or shoveling snow to prevent serious illness.
Please remember to avoid excessive exertion especially when shoveling snow that can lead to heart problems.
Cold weather can increase extra strain on the heart. If you have heart disease or high blood pressure, you should follow your healthcare provider’s advice about shoveling snow or performing other hard work in the cold. If heavy outdoor chores are necessary or if you insist on shoveling snow, please dress warmly and work slowly. Near freezing temperature is considered a factor for cold stress. Whenever temperatures drop decidedly below normal, heat can more rapidly leave the body. These weather-related conditions may lead to serious health problems. Be sure the outer layer of clothing is tightly woven, preferably wind resistant, to reduce body-heat loss caused by cold. It is important to stay dry. Wet clothing chills the body rapidly. Excess perspiration will increase heat loss, so remove extra layers of clothing whenever you feel too warm. Do not ignore shivering, it’s an important first sign that the body is losing heat.
If at any time you experience chest pain, feeling lightheaded or shortness of breath, or if your heart starts racing, you should head indoors immediately. If you believe you may be experiencing a heart attack or if medical attention is needed call 911.
Please stay safe and warm during this winter storm.
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