Injuries related to snow blowers in the United States: 2002 through 2008

Abstract

Objectives: The objective was to examine injuries related to the use of a snow blower among patients treated in an emergency department (ED).

Methods: Data were obtained from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) for the years 2002-2008. National estimates of ED visits for injuries associated with the use of a snow blower were obtained, and descriptive epidemiologic characteristics assessed.

Results: From 2002 through 2008, there were an estimated 32,307 ED visits for injuries related to the use of a snow blower in the United States. Older adults had a higher proportion of ED visits for such injuries than younger age groups. The majority of injuries involved injuries to the hand, with 42% of cases diagnosed with fractures and 20% resulting in amputations.

Conclusions: Findings indicate that injuries from snow blowers remain a public health problem. Efforts to reduce injury incidence are discussed in accordance with inherent challenges of prevention of injuries associated with these products.