I don’t know if it is snowing where you are, but it is coming down pretty hard outside my window! The sound of snow blowers can be heard loud and clear, and then there is the sound of a shovel scraping against the sidewalk.

I can’t help thinking of all the men, and women shoveling their walkways who may not know the safe way to shovel. While shoveling snow can be good exercise, it can also be dangerous for optimistic shovelers who take on more than they can handle.

The National Safety Council offers the following tips to help you get a handle on safe shoveling:

• Individuals over the age of 40, or those  who are relatively inactive, should be especially careful.

• If you have a history of heart trouble, do not shovel without a doctor’s permission.

• Do not shovel after eating or while smoking.

• Take it slow! Shoveling (like lifting weights) can raise your heart rate and blood pressure dramatically; so pace yourself. Be sure to stretch out and warm up before taking on the task.

• Shovel only fresh snow. Freshly fallen, powdery snow is easier to shovel than the wet, packed-down variety.

• Push the snow as you shovel. It’s easier on your back than lifting the snow out of the way.

• Don’t pick up too much at once. Use a small shovel, or fill only one-fourth or one-half of a large one

• Lift with your legs bent, not your back. Keep your back straight. By bending and “sitting” into the movement, you’ll keep your spine upright and less stressed. Your shoulders, torso and thighs can do the work for you.

• Do not work to the point of exhaustion.

• If you run out of breath, take a break. If you feel tightness in your chest, stop immediately.

• Dress warmly. Remember that extremities, such as the nose, ears, hands and feet, need extra attention during winter’s cold. Wear a turtleneck sweater, a warm jacket, waterproof pants, gloves and boots, and a warm hat, scarf and face covering when you go out to shovel.