Blizzard of '26 Aftermath: Safety Tips for Digging Out

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After the Blizzard of '26 dumped nearly 4 feet of snow on Rhode Island, the state's Department of Health is providing important safety guidance for residents digging out their homes and cars. Key tips include taking it slow, staying hydrated, dressing warmly, and watching for signs of hypothermia, frostbite, and carbon monoxide poisoning.

Why it matters

The historic blizzard has left Rhode Islanders facing significant challenges in clearing snow and restoring normalcy. Heeding safety precautions is crucial to prevent injuries and health emergencies during the recovery process.

The details

The Rhode Island Department of Health is advising residents to take several steps before shoveling snow, including consulting with a doctor if they have a history of heart trouble, dressing in loose, waterproof layers, staying hydrated, and stretching to prepare the body. They recommend using a smaller shovel, lifting with the legs, and taking frequent breaks to avoid overexertion. The department also warns against using hands or feet to clear a snow blower, and urges caution to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning from blocked vents and running vehicles.

• The Blizzard of '26 began on Monday and dumped nearly 4 feet of snow on Rhode Island.
• As of Monday evening, T.F. Green International Airport recorded 37.9 inches of snowfall.

What’s next

The Rhode Island Department of Health will continue monitoring the situation and providing updated safety guidance as residents work to dig out from the historic blizzard.