Healthier lives 51

 winter safety tips

To stay safe during winter, follow a few essential safety tips both indoors and outdoors, especially when dealing with cold, ice, and snow.

Clothing and Frostbite Prevention

Dress in layers using light, warm clothing and use wind-resistant outerwear.

Wear hats, gloves, scarves, and waterproof boots to protect extremities and prevent frostbite.

Change wet clothes quickly to avoid hypothermia.

Outdoor and Walking Safety 

Walk slowly with short, flat-footed steps on icy surfaces to avoid falls.

Wear boots with good traction; avoid leather or slick-soled shoes.

Use brightly colored or reflective gear to improve visibility to motorists.

Keep walkways clear of snow and ice and use salt or sand for traction.

Driving Precautions

Accelerate and brake slowly; increase the following distance.

Drive slower than usual and never use cruise control in snowy/icy conditions.

Prepare your car with winter supplies (ice scraper, de-icer, backup washer fluid, emergency kit).

Always buckle up and watch out for black ice.

Preventing Falls and Injuries

Allow extra travel time to avoid rushing, which increases fall risk.

Use handrails where available and avoid carrying heavy loads while walking in icy areas.

Stretch and take frequent breaks when shoveling snow to prevent injuries.

Staying Warm and Avoiding Carbon Monoxide

Check heating systems regularly, and monitor for carbon monoxide if using fireplaces or heaters.

Never run a car in an enclosed garage due to carbon monoxide risk.

Keep backup emergency supplies like food, water, flashlights, and warm clothing.

Additional Home and Power Outage Precautions.

Use flashlights instead of candles during outages to prevent fire hazards.

Keep pipes from freezing by letting water drip and opening cabinet doors to allow heat to reach under sinks.

By taking these steps, you can significantly lower your risk of injury, illness, or emergency situations during the winter season.