With Winter Storm Fern now passed, the Pleasant Valley Fire District is sharing an important message about heart attack risks related to shoveling snow.

Shoveling snow is a high-risk activity for heart attacks, especially for people who are usually inactive or have existing medical conditions. The combination of intense physical effort and cold air can raise heart rate and blood pressure quickly. Each year, shoveling snow leads to about 11,500 injuries and 100 deaths nationwide.

The physical demands of shoveling heavy snow are similar to taking a treadmill stress test, which can put significant strain on the heart. Cold temperatures make conditions more dangerous by causing blood vessels to narrow, which restricts blood flow and increases blood pressure.

Men over the age of 50, smokers, and those with high blood pressure, diabetes, or a history of heart problems are at greatest risk. Lifting, throwing heavy snow, and pushing snow blowers can all be hazardous activities.

To stay safe, experts recommend stretching before starting, using a shovel to push snow rather than lifting, and taking frequent breaks to avoid overexertion. If you experience chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath, stop shoveling right away. Anyone with heart conditions or risk factors should consider hiring help to remove snow instead of doing it themselves.