News Feature                   For Immediate Release

February 7, 2006

Snow Blower Injuries

Every major snowfall brings with it the risk of snow blower related injuries.

“We have unfortunately already seen x-rays of our first snow blower related amputation,” said Dr. Laura Howlett, Radiologist at Grey Bruce Health Services, Owen Sound. “I am always sickened by the images I receive, and amazed at the persistent lack of snow blower safety knowledge.”

Web searches failed to turn up Canadian statistics on this winter-related topic, but according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) in 2001, there were 4,387 hospital emergency room injuries associated with snow throwers or blowers. The injuries range from severe cuts, crushed or broken bones, joint injuries, finger amputations (two-thirds of the injuries involve fingers), and even death. Nineteen deaths have been reported since 1992. Most injuries are related to clearing the auger or discharge chute by hand instead of using an appropriately sized solid object. Even after the snow blower engine is turned off, an auger can rotate unexpectedly when the cause of a jam is removed.

The solution to staying safe when using a snow blower is simple, according to Sandy Rennick, Public Health Nurse with the Grey Bruce Health Unit. “Just remember if your snow blower jams to:

• Turn it off,
• disengage the clutch,
• wait 5 seconds to allow the blades to stop rotating,
• always use a stick or broom handle to clear snow or ice jams,
• never put your hand down the chute or around the blades, and
• keep all the shields in place.”  she said.

Manage the risks when dealing with snow removal this winter. Concentrate on what you’re doing and remember: safety first at all times. For further information call Public Health at 376-9420.

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For more information:

Sandy Rennick, RN, B.Sc.N.

Public Health Nurse

Grey Bruce Health Unit

376-9420 x.411