Winter is here, and with it comes many traditions and activities: Celebrations with loved ones on the Palouse and in the LC valley, skiing and snowboarding outings in the mountains, fireplace-lit living rooms, homemade batches of soup… and shoveling snow.

Considering all the snowfall we've had in 2016, snow storms have hit and our driveway and walkways are now covered with the cold white stuff. You might want to just stay inside, but if your work and personal commitments make that impossible, you’ll need to first dig yourself out!

For many people across the northwest, snow shoveling is both a reality and a necessity this winter.

At AMERICAN INSURANCE, we want to ensure your efforts will get you on your way while also keeping you safe, so here are some snow-shoveling tips offered by the Boston Herald.

• Warm-up! Never jump right into an activity. Start by cleaning off your car.
• Place your hands a good distance apart on the shovel - it helps with leverage.
• Never bend at your waist.
• Push the snow when you can.
• Scoop smaller loads of snow.
• Use your legs, core and arms to help scoop and throw snow.
• Always step in the direction you throw snow to avoid excessive twisting on your lower back.

If snow shoveling is on your winter task list, we at AMERICAN INSURANCE wish you both a clear sidewalk and a healthy body.

Source: Safeco, News Release, Shovel snow safely