Glen Carbon man dies after shoveling snow outside his home
A Glen Carbon man has died after shoveling snow outside his home exacerbated his pre-existing heart condition, accordig to the Madison County Coroner..
Otis L. Douglas, 65, was pronounced dead at noon Tuesday in the Intensive Care Unit at Anderson Hospital in Maryville, a news release from Madison County Coroner Stephen Nonn says.
Douglas had been shoveling snow outside his home before 8 a.m. Tuesday from the winter storm that hit the St. Louis area on Monday when he came back inside the residence and collapsed, Nonn said. First responders from the Glen Carbon Fire Protection District were able to treat Douglas and restore his pulse before he was transferred to the hospital.
According to Nonn, Douglas had heart disease, “which makes snow shoveling even more perilous.”
Funeral arrangements for Douglas will be handled by Officer Funeral Home in East St. Louis.
Nonn’s office reminded the public of the dangers of snow removal after this week’s snow storm.
“We always feel the need to clean the walks and clear the cars, but everyone needs to consider their own state of health and what could be lost versus what could be gained,” Nonn said. “Every year, deaths occur while shoveling or in a close time proximity of engaging in the activity. I would prefer those who have health problems or are out of shape play it safe.”
The National Safety Council suggests these tips and reminders for snow removal during the winter:
- Do not shovel after eating or while smoking
- Take it slow and stretch out before you begin
- Shovel only fresh, powdery snow; it’s lighter
- Push the snow rather than lifting it
- If you do lift it, use a small shovel or only partially fill the shovel
- Lift with your legs, not your back
- Do not work to the point of exhaustion
- Know the signs of a heart attack, and stop immediately and call 911 if you’re experiencing any of them; every minute counts.
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