Snow Shoveling Safety Tips – Feb. 23, 2026
Every year in the United States, over 11,000 people are treated in emergency rooms for snow shoveling injuries, most commonly for chest pain, back injuries, and hypothermia. About 100 people die each year primarily due to heart attacks triggered by the extreme physical exertion in cold temperatures.
2025 Winter Home Maintenance “To Do” Checklist
Get your house & yard in great shape!
- Have a snow shovel & ice-melt salt – Be prepared! Buy more salt if you’re running low.
- Have your heating system serviced
- Change your furnace’s filter at least every three months (or when dirty)
- Have your Fireplace/Chimney Cleaned and Inspected – especially if you’ve been using the fireplace
- Repair any cracks in your driveway and walkway before they get worse in the winter
- Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts
- Winterize your sprinkler system (If you live where winter temperatures go below freezing)
- Winterize any outside plumbing that needs it – Drain garden hoses and bring them inside
- Close your pool – Winterize if you live where winter temperatures go below freezing
- Inspect your roof – Check for any signs of damage that should be repaired.
- Inspect your property for dangerous trees/branches
- Maintain your deck
- Have your septic tank inspected and pumped by a professional.
- Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.