Northeast Ohio. Snow is Coming! Here are some safe rules to play by.

As we head into some extreme temperatures in Northeast Ohio over the next few days here are some simple tips of advice.

·     Heavy sweaters are cozy, but the most effective way to protect yourself from frostbite and hypothermia is to layer up on the warm, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing.

·      Rain boots are just not the same as snow boots. Make sure your footwear is insulated

·       To keep pipes from freezing, keep the water running water at a trickle

·     Fill up your gas tank, this will keep the fuel line from freezing.

·     Stock on a three-day’s supply of water, that’s one gallon per person, per day.

If you are going to be shoveling:

·        Lightweight aluminum shovels work best and surface conditioners such as Teflon, silicon or wax can be used to prevent snow buildup on the shovel surface.

·     Take your time. A typical snow shovel holds lots of snow. Partially fill the shovel rather than heaping it full to reduce strain on muscles and joints.

·      Bend legs slightly at the knee, letting thigh muscles do most of the pushing and lifting work. This will also reduce strain on the heart and back.

·      Pay close attention to the cold temperature and how tired you become. Don’t work to the point of exhaustion. Take breaks indoors to warm up.

·    If you are over 45, sedentary, smoke, have high blood pressure, are overweight or have a heart condition, play it safe and get someone else to do the shoveling.

·    Stay hydrated. You sweat more than you think while shoveling snow. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids before and after shoveling to replenish fluids lost in the process.