January - PRACTICE SNOW THROWER SAFETY THIS WINTER

Contact:
Practice Manager
616-956-1212

For Immediate Release

GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN - Snow throwers are a great time saver in the wintertime, but they may be dangerous if handled carelessly or improperly. Physicians at the Michigan Hand Center recommend that anyone planning to use a snow thrower this winter take the proper precautions to prevent injuries of the fingers or hand. Thousands of people suffer snow thrower-related injuries every winter due to improper handling.

"People need to be aware that if they're not careful, a snow thrower can fairly easily maim or amputate a finger or hand," warns Dr. Dean Toriello of the Michigan Hand Specialists. "The injuries inflicted by snow throwers often require delicate surgery and extended periods of rehabilitation. Users need to keep in mind that the snow thrower blade is located only a few inches into the discharge tube, and that older machines may precede modern safety regulations. Caution must be used at all times."

The most common snow thrower injury is amputation of the tips of fingers, most often on the victim's dominant hand. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), each year there are hundreds of finger amputations involving snow throwers, and on average snow throwers are responsible for approximately 5,740 hospital emergency room-related injuries every winter.

Most snow thrower injuries occur after at least six inches of accumulation, especially when temperatures 28 degrees or higher result in wet, heavy snow. Snow thrower injuries often occur after the exit chute becomes clogged, and the operator attempts to clear the block with a hand. The hand then comes in contact with the rotating blades or the inside of the chute, causing potentially severe injury. "Blades inside the snow thrower may continue to rotate even after the machine is shut off," explains Dr. Toriello. "But even if you think the blades have stopped, never, never put your hand inside the exit chute."

    If a snow thrower is jammed, follow these safety recommendations:
  • Turn it off!
  • Disengage the clutch
  • Wait at least five seconds after machine is turned off before attempting to clear the impacted snow
  • Use a stick or broom handle to clear out blockage
  • Do not put your hand into the chute or anywhere near the blades
  • Never remove any shields or safety devices on the snow thrower
  • Keep hands and feet clear of any moving parts at all times

If a snow thrower injury is sustained, direct pressure should be applied to the wound with a clean cloth. If bleeding does not slow or stop after 15 minutes of direct pressure, a visit to the emergency room may be necessary.

Based in West Michigan, the Michigan Hand Center provides care for disorders and injuries of the hand, wrist, and upper extremity. Their physicians are board certified and include orthopaedic surgeons and plastic surgeons with specialty training in microsurgery and reconstructive hand surgery. Each physician has privileges at all major hospitals and clinics in Grand Rapids and Cutlerville, as well as at Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Center in Grand Rapids.

<--Previous | Next-->