Snow removal can be hard on the body when you have to clear a large area with only a shovel, especially after a heavy snow. Using a snow blower may be the perfect way to give your back a break. However, it is important to take the proper safety precautions to avoid unnecessary injury while clearing snow this winter. Dress for the Job

• Clearing snow can be a cold job. Dress properly not only to keep yourself warm, but also to keep yourself safe.
• Wear boots that will give you adequate traction while walking behind the blower.
• Wear gloves that allow you to firmly grip the snow blower and do not interfere with its operation.
• Wear eye protection.
• Avoid long scarves or other loose clothing that could become caught in the snow blower’s moving parts during servicing or operation.

Before Use

• Go through these steps before you begin to clear snow:
• Familiarize yourself with the snow blower’s operations manual.
• Inspect the area that you are about to clear. Look for things that may be hidden under the snow like doormats or newspapers.
• Check the snow blower’s oil level before each use.
• Never start the snow blower indoors. If you are in a garage, make sure the door is open before you start the machine.

While running the snow blower:

• Be aware of where you are aiming the shoot. Rocks and ice can become dangerous missiles if picked up by the blower.
• Never blow snow toward people or cars.
• Keep your hands and feet away from all moving arts.
• Never override automatic shutoff features.
• Do not operate the snow blower on a steep incline.
• Operate the blower at a speed no faster than a walk.
• Clogs and Jams

If something becomes stuck in the snow blower:

• Turn the machine off and wait until all moving parts have stopped before attempting to fix anything.
• Never reach into the blower shoot with your hands for any reason, even if the machine is off.
• Use a stick to work any debris out of the shoot.

Proper Maintenance Counts

• Proper snow blower maintenance is important to ensure smooth operation.
• Always add fresh fuel and oil at the start of each season; also, check the spark plug.
• If you are using an electric snow blower or an electric start for a gas-powered blower, make sure any power cords being used are in good condition
• Maintain proper tire pressure to provide the best handling.
• Run all of the fuel out of the snow blower before storing it at the end of each season.