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Snowblowers are by far the easiest way to clear the winter snow from your driveway, but they also present dangers as well. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there are more than 4,000 emergency room injuries each year associated with snowblowers. Injuries sustained from snowblowers may include severe cuts as well as broken or crushed bones. Two-thirds of snowblower injuries involve fingers and can commonly lead to finger amputations. There have been several deaths related to snowblower injuries as well, the most common reason involving carbon monoxide poisoning.
Most, if not all, of these injuries can be prevented. The most common cause for injury related to use of a snowblower involves using one’s hands in order to clear the collector or auger after it has become clogged. In the event that the snowblower does become clogged, it is imperative that you first turn off the machine and wait until the blades have completely stopped running before attempting to clear the clog. Then, never use your fingers to get rid of debris or snow. Use another utensil, such as a long stick.
Before operating the machine, you should always make sure that you have thoroughly read the manual and understand the operating procedures. Safety devices should never be removed from the snowblower. Hands and feet should always be kept away from all moving parts of the snowblower. The snowblower should never be left running in an area that is enclosed. This is extremely dangerous and increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be fatal. Fuel should be placed in the tank before the machine is started. The machine should always be fueled outside.
A snowblower should never be operated when you have been consuming alcohol, have taken medication or you are distracted in any other way. Be sure that you always wear safety goggles to prevent anything from blowing up into your eyes while you are operating the snowblower. It is also a good idea to wear ear protection, as snowblowers can be quite loud.
Never operate a snowblower around pets or small children. You should never leave a snowblower running when you are not able to attend it. You should always shut it off, even if you are not able to attend it for a brief period of time. Never wear loose clothing when you operate a snowblower as clothing can become easily entangled in the moving parts of the machine.
Snowblowers can be quite convenient this winter. Make sure that you avoid visits to the emergency room by following these safety guidelines.
