As the snow starts falling with more frequency, developing proper shoveling techniques is important

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The romantic idea of snow, the one we see on television and movies, tends to take over at this time of year.

We start whistling about white Christmases and dreaming, as the song suggests, about treetops glistening with snow.

But soon after the wrapping paper is crammed into the blue bags and the turkey carcass is simmering in the stock pot, all of the beauty turns to the ugly realization that we will have to move it out of the driveway.

With thousands of scoops of snow ahead of us, it is important to make sure that each of them is done safely.

Everyone knows that heart patients and those with back problems should probably not attempt to move a lot of snow, but there are other precautions, as well.

Recent studies have shown that just two minutes of shovelling increases heart rate, and in smokers and sedentary people, that increase can be twice as high as the recommended upper limit.

Doctors suggest avoiding caffeine, nicotine or heavy meals before heading out to clear the driveway.

Thinking of shoveling as exercise instead of as a chore can lead to a safer outing, as well.

A quick stretch and warm-up routine before you start out, plenty of water and a steady pace can all make the difference the next day, with fewer sore, strained muscles.

When it comes to shovel selection, experts recommend a smaller scoop, in order to reduce the load each time you move.

Pushing snow to the side of the driveway is preferred over throwing shovels of snow.

The wise will make the pile of snow far away from the driveway at the beginning of the winter, so as to leave room to stack the snow in March.

Finally, if you are able to shovel without harming your health, consider helping out someone who can't.

An elderly neighbour or friend with a new baby will likely welcome the chance to keep a little safer this winter.