Amica Offers Tips for the Safe Removal of Snow

PR Web

LINCOLN, R.I. (PRWEB) January 19, 2017

With the cold weather here, many people will have to clear snow with snow blowers or shovels from driveways and sidewalks.

Snow blowers are efficient when clearing large amounts of snow, but they can be dangerous when used incorrectly. That's why Amica Insurance is sharing the following tips from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission for the proper use of snow blowers:

When removing wet snow or debris from the blower, turn off the engine and use a long stick to unclog it. Always keep hands and feet away from moving parts.
Don't run the machine in enclosed spaces.
Make sure to only refuel the blower outdoors, and never add gasoline to a running or hot engine. Keep gas in a capped container, and store it outside the house and away from sources of ignition.
If using an electric blower, always keep an eye on the power cord.

Shoveling, meanwhile, is a strenuous activity that should only be performed by those who are physically fit. Amica is sharing additional safety tips for shoveling from the American Red Cross:

Wear multiple layers of light clothing, instead of one heavy coat.
Warm up muscles and take plenty of breaks to avoid strains.
Drink plenty of fluids. Even though it's cold out, dehydration can still be an issue.
Keep a cellphone with you in case of a fall, a cardiac emergency, etc.
Use sand, salt or an ice melt on walkways to help avoid slips and falls.

About Amica Insurance
Amica Mutual Insurance Co., the nation's oldest mutual insurer of automobiles, was founded in 1907. The company, based in Lincoln, Rhode Island, is a national writer of auto, home, marine and umbrella insurance. Life coverage is available through Amica Life Insurance Company, a wholly owned subsidiary. Amica employs more than 3,700 people in 44 offices across the country. For more information, visit Amica.com.