Many people may face an increased risk of a heart attack after shoveling snow. Here's how to stay safe and how to identify the signs of a heart attack.

It may seem like a wintry urban legend folks share to avoid this task on the to-do list, but shoveling snow actually can pose some health risks.

With snow projected to fall across large portions of Indiana this weekend, the American Heart Association has provided some tips to help protect shoveler's hearts.

Snow removal increases myocardial infarction risk; caution advised, especially for those with heart conditions or sedentary lifestyles.

If you're planning to shovel your own snow this weekend during the winter storm, the American Heart Association wants you to keep your health in mind.

Use a small shovel or consider a snow thrower. The act of lifting heavy snow can raise blood pressure acutely during the lift. It is safer to lift smaller amounts more times, than to lug a few huge shovelfuls of snow. When possible, simply push the snow.

To guard against a cardiac event, Karnam says people should ask their neighbors or friends for help, take frequent breaks, stay warm, and shovel small amounts of snow at a time or use a snow blower. He says the most important precautionary step people can take, though, is being aware of cardiac signs and symptoms.

Experts warn that snow shoveling can pose serious health risks, particularly for older adults and those with preexisting conditions.

With the winter storm now passed, many people are getting out and shoveling away... but the National Weather Service has some tips to stay safe!