It’s time to break out the snow blowers because snow is here! Even though it technically isn’t winter yet, New England has already gotten a ton of snow. Snow blowers can be a potentially dangerous piece of equipment to use. It’s essential to follow certain safety tips to ensure you are using it correctly and not harm yourself. Here are some safety tips:

Loose Clothing

When you are operating a snowblower, you should avoid wearing loose and baggy clothing. These types of clothes can get caught and pulled by the snowblower. To be on the safe side, wear fitted attire and weather-appropriate outerwear. 

Footwear

Since you’ll be outside walking on slippery ice and snow, wearing proper footwear can help keep you safe. Having shoes on that have good traction and grip can save you from falling. Slipping and falling while operating a snow blower is not safe.

Starting the Machine

When starting your snow blower, be sure to do so outside. Don’t start it in your shed or garage because carbon-monoxide can be harmful to breathe in. Doing it outside will help you avoid breathing it in.

Protecting Your Ears

Snow blowers are loud machinery, so protecting yourself from hearing damage is important. You should wear earplugs or headphones to avoid the loud noises impairing your hearing. Even wearing earmuffs and a hat can help muffle the noises.

Blowing the Snow

When you begin to blow the snow, make sure it’s going in a direction away from people, cars, and homes. This can cause damage and harm to people and things. If your kids are outside playing in the snow, make sure they are far enough away from where you are working. Better yet, keep them inside until you are done.

What Happens if My Snow blower Clogs?

Unclogging a snow blower can be dangerous if not done correctly. Many people try to stick their hands and fingers in it, which can often result in amputations. If you are experiencing a clog, you should be sure to turn it off before trying to fix anything and make sure the blades are no longer in motion. 

Avoiding Clogs

To avoid clogs, try spraying the chute and blades with cooking spray. It would help if you also tried to space out your snow blowing. Doing it all at once with wet, heavy snow can cause clogs. Walk briskly with the blower so that the blades can move quickly and avoid clogging.

Contact Tri-Rent-All

Tri-Rent-All is here to provide you with equipment rentals! With locations in Portsmouth and Hampton, we are easily accessible for those on the Seacoast. Contact either of our locations to get in touch with our equipment rental experts! Call Hampton or Portsmouth, or send us a message.