With temperatures warming up, you may finally be able to dig out areas you couldn’t reach earlier, like walkways and sidewalks. Keep yourself safe and injury-free by following these smart snow-shoveling tips.

Warm up properly. Do a few light stretches to loosen your muscles and reduce the risk of strains or fatigue.

Use proper form. Let your arms and legs do the heavy lifting. Keep one hand close to the shovel blade and the other about a foot apart for better balance and leverage.

Take frequent breaks. Shoveling is strenuous work. Give your heart a rest by pacing yourself and pausing often.

Push whenever possible. Pushing snow is easier on your body than lifting it. If you must lift, keep amounts small to avoid putting unnecessary stress on your heart and back.

Dress in layers. Layers help you regulate body temperature. Remove them as you warm up to stay comfortable and prevent overheating.

Consult your doctor. If you have a medical condition or concerns about physical exertion, consult your doctor before shoveling.