The Newton Fire Department reports [2] firefighters and EMTs responded to a call today for "a finger amputation by snowblower," adds:
Folks, please turn the machines off first before you clear the blockages.
The Mass. Emergency Management Agency [3] warns even that isn't good enough:
Never, EVER, put your hand in a snowblower. Even after the snowblower is turned off, tension can be stored in the rotor blades.