Suburban fire officials issue snow blower safety reminder after injuries reported

A snow blower injury during this weekend’s snowstorm in suburban McHenry County prompted firefighters to remind residents about snow blower safety.

According to the Marengo Fire and Rescue District, at approximately 2:01 p.m. on Saturday, crews were called to the 600 block of West Prairie Street in Marengo for a snow blower-related injury. Emergency personnel responded to the scene and located a man who suffered deep lacerations to multiple fingers after attempting to clear a clog in the machine, officials said.

Paramedics transported the man to a Rockford-area hospital for treatment.

Following the incident, fire officials warned that heavy, wet snow can clog equipment quickly – and trying to reach inside a chute can lead to serious injuries even if the machine is turned off. Before placing their hands in the chute or near where the blades turn, residents should fully turn off equipment and wait for moving parts to stop.

“Taking simple precautions and remembering to use a clearing tool can significantly reduce the risk of injury,” officials said.