Dig it, Vienna: Fairfax County Offers Snow Shoveling Tips, Video

With snow piled up in Vienna — Fairfax County government released the following snow shoveling tips and video.

The state and county do not clear public walkways like sidewalks and trails, according to Fairfax County's emergency information blog. And though no one is "legally obligated" to do so, the county asks residents and businesses to help keep sidewalks safe.

Government officials with the Town of Vienna advise: It is best not to clear the portion of your driveway near the street until snowplows have cleared the street.  The Town uses fixed snowplows that throw the snow to the right of the truck and it is not possible for snowplow operators to keep the windrow of snow away from a driveway.  

If you shovel, Fairfax County recommends following these tips, along with those in the video above:

1. If you or someone you are with begins to have chest discomfort, especially with one or more of the other signs of a heart attack, call 9-1-1 right away.
2. If you have a history of heart disease do not shovel without your doctor’s okay.
3. Shovel small amounts of snow at a time.
4. Push the snow instead of lifting where possible. If you have a driveway, move snow to the opposite side of where a plow will push.
5. Use proper form if lifting is necessary: keeping your back straight and lift with your legs.
6. Avoid shoveling under snow and ice covered trees and roof lines due to possibly falling limbs, ice and snow.
7. Take breaks while shoveling and do not overexert yourself, especially if you are inactive or over 40.
8. Dress in layers and wear warm clothing, especially because wind chills will be dropping below zero.