A Glen Carbon man collapsed and died on Tuesday, Dec. 17 after shoveling snow, causing the Madison County Coroner's office to issue a reminder about the dangers of snow shoveling and removal.

According to Coroner Steve Nonn, Otis Douglas, 65, had been outside shoveling snow on Tuesday morning. He returned inside his residence and then collapsed a few minutes after. First responders with the Glen Carbon Fire Protection District were able to successfully treat Douglas and restore a pulse. He was then transferred to Anderson Hospital in Maryville, where Nonn said his condition deteriorated. He was pronounced dead in the Intensive Care Unit at noon.

Douglas suffered from pre-existing heart disease, which Nonn said makes snow shoveling even more perilous. According to the coroner, the National Safety Council offers tips regarding snow removal; which include taking it slow and stretching before beginning, shoveling only fresh, powdery snow, pushing the snow rather than lifting it, and not working to the point of exhaustion.

Nonn added that everyone needs to consider their own state of health and what could be lost versus what could be gained. Funeral arrangements for Douglas are being handled by the Officer Funeral Home of East St. Louis.