Emergency crews in Hamilton have responded to multiple shovelling and snow-related incidents Monday morning after Southern Ontario was hit by a treacherous winter storm.

Up to 50 centimeters of snow is expected to blanket Hamilton, Halton, Niagara and surrounding areas. The worst weather is anticipated to hit the Golden Horseshoe Area around 11 a.m.

Hamilton paramedics have shared the following tips from Canada Safety Council to help keep you safe as you head out the door to shovel your sidewalks and driveways.

WARM UP
You’re taking your body out into the cold and exerting energy. The importance of limbering up to prevent muscle strain and injury can’t be overstated. Stretch and get the blood flowing before you dive into the chore. You wouldn’t let a car run without warming it up, so why do the same to your body?

WEAR APPROPRIATE CLOTHING FOR THE CONDITIONS
Just because there’s snow down doesn’t mean it’ll naturally be ice cold outside. On the other hand, it also doesn’t mean it’s safe to assume you’ll be fine without protective clothing. Take some time to consider what you’re wearing. If it’s cold out, layer up. The layer closest to your body should be a fabric that doesn’t retain sweat, but rather pushes it away. This will help keep your core warm and avoid chills from damp clothing. Gloves and a toque are also important factors, as windchill and frostbite are no joking matters.

KNOW WHEN TO LET THE SNOW BE
If the weather dips below -40 C, or -25 C or if it’s especially windy, let the snow be for the moment. It’ll be there when the weather warms up a bit, and it’s not worth the risk that the extreme cold adds to the equation.

USE THE RIGHT TOOL FOR THE JOB
A lightweight shovel with an appropriately sized blade is important. The larger the blade, the more snow it’ll hold and the heavier it will be to lift. Take this into consideration when buying your shovel. Also, consider the material the shovel is made with – a metal shovel will naturally retain the cold more than a plastic or wooden one. Lastly, make sure your shovel has a long enough grip that you don’t need to stoop to dig out the snow.

TAKE YOUR TIME
This seems to be a catch-all safety tip but holds especially true when shoveling. The temptation is to go quickly, finish the chore and be content. But it becomes a lot more challenging to shovel with sore muscles, overexertion or serious injury. Go slowly and methodically, making sure to shove the snow rather than lift it where possible. Throwing snow can be unavoidable, but if the situation arises make sure you’re throwing in front of you in a linear motion, making sure you’re not twisting at the waist.

PAY ATTENTION TO WHAT KIND OF SNOW YOU ARE SHOVELING
Powdery snow tends to be more lightweight, whereas wetter, more packable snow is naturally heavier because of the water it’s retaining. Recognize the type you’re dealing with before you start shoveling so you can lift appropriate amounts at a time.

Hamilton paramedics are also reminding residents to stay hydrated and look out for their neighbours.