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R&R Insurance Blog

How To Avoid Snow Blower Injuries | Snow Blower Safety Tips

Posted by the knowledge brokers

SnowblowerThe Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) estimates there are 5,740 hospital emergency room injuries a year caused by snow blowers. The CPSC reports 19 deaths since 1992 from using snow blowers. Five deaths were caused by carbon monoxide poisoning because someone left the engine running in an enclosed area.

 

The American Society for Surgery of the Hand, reminds us that accidents can happen when using a snow blower.

 

Injury Profile:

  • Average age: 44 years
  • Sex: Male
  • 90% of injuries: dominant hand
  • Amputations of tips of fingers
  • Middle finger most commonly injured

 

Injury Causes:

  • Snow clogging the exit chute of the machine
  • Not noticing that the impeller blades are still rotating even though the machine is off
  • Operator attempts to clean the clogged exit chute with hands
  • Hands connect with the rotating blades, resulting in severe injury snow blowers are safe if used properly

 

If Your Snow Blower Jams:

  • Turn it OFF!
  • Disengage clutch.
  • Wait five seconds after shutting machine off to allow impeller blades to stop rotating.
  • ALWAYS use a stick or broom handle to clear impacted snow.
  • NEVER put your hand down chute or around blades.
  • Keep all shields in place. DO NOT REMOVE the safety devices on the machine.
  • Keep hands and feet away from all moving parts.
  • Keep a clear head, concentrate
  • DO NOT DRINK before using your snow blower!

 

Three Snow Blower Safety Tips:

  • Never put your hands inside the snow blower chute for any reason. If the chute becomes clogged with snow (or another object), turn it off, wait for all moving parts to come to a complete stop and then clear the chute with a stick. It may be frigid outside but don't risk not shutting off your machine to clear an object, because once you clear the obstruction, the parts will start to move again!
  • Dress properly for the job. Be sure to wear adequate winter clothing and footwear that will improve footing on slippery surfaces. Wear safety glasses, and avoid any loose fitting clothing that could get caught in moving parts. Be careful of long hair. Wear ear plugs or other ear protection - they are loud!
  • Remove debris and other obstacles (door mats, toys, decorations) the snow blower might strike or throw, as they may cause injury or damage to the snow blower.

 

Wisconsin residents, contact an R&R knowledgebroker about your current home and auto coverage, or any questions you might have for us at R&R Insurance!

Topics: Personal Insurance, snow blower safety tips, snoblower injuries, snoblower safety tips, snowblower jams, when using a snowblower, cpsc, snow blower