North Dakota Residents Over 45 Should Stop Doing This

Even though this weekend we're getting a break from the brutal cold weather, those low temps and snow will soon return.

Health experts are warning North Dakota residents over the age of 45 to stop doing this during the wintertime.

Those who do it could run the risk of injuries such as: soft tissue injuries, back injuries, heart attack triggering, pulled muscles and more.

According to Northwestern Medicine, you're more susceptible to a heart attack if you're out in the cold because it causes your blood vessels to contract.

Interestingly enough, according to the National Safety Council, this activity causes hundreds of deaths and approximately 11,000 injuries that require an emergency room visit each year.

I know this is going to be one of those easier said than done things, but men and women over the age of 45 should stop shoveling snow.

It snows a lot in North Dakota, so I know how ridiculous this sounds, but if you can find a neighborhood kid or family member to do it, you should.

Recruit some help so you don't end up injuring yourself this winter.

If you must shovel your snow, the National Safety Council advises you follow these rules:

Do not shovel while eating or after smoking

Stretch before you begin

Push the snow, rather than lifting it

Lift with your legs, not your back

Shovel only fresh, powdery snow --it's lighter

Know the signs of a heart attack

Only partially fill the shovel

Always consider your health and safety before doing winter activities.