Twin Tiers Residents Urged to Use Caution While Shoveling Snow

The American Heart Association is reminding Twin Tiers residents to take precautions as they attempt to clear snow from driveways and sidewalks.

Heart attacks spike following major snow events. Be sure to take frequent breaks, lift with your knees and take smaller shovel-fulls to avoid over exertion.

Bob Joseph/WNBF News [file][/caption]People with existing heart and lung issues should be extra careful and consider asking for help in clearing walks and driveways.

Piles of snow left at the bottom of driveways by passing municipal snow plows can be especially problematic as they are more difficult to move.  Again, health officials say the work should be broken down in intervals with frequent breaks.

It is illegal to shovel or blow snow back into the street.  Offenders can be fined for violating municipal ordinances.

While the snow overnight is light, also be aware of safety precautions when using snow blowers. Never reach into a running machine to clear a clog.

Residents should also bear in mind the danger of carbon monoxide, Exhaust vents for furnaces and clothes dryers should be shoveled clear of snow to keep dangerous fumes from backing up into buildings.

Alternate side of the street winter parking rules are being enforced in order to clear streets as much as possible to facilitate plowing activities.  Violators may be ticketed and/or towed.

Be aware of extra restrictions in areas where vehicles are prohibited from to roadways when snowfall totals exceed two inches.  The current measurement of snow from Winter Storm Gail has been put at up to three feet in areas in the Greater Binghamton Metro districts, including Johnson City, Endicott and some areas of Vestal.

Snow Emergency Routes ban parking on both sides of the street in order to keep a clear route between Wilson Memorial Regional Medical Center in Johnson City and Ascension Lourdes Hospital in Johnson City.