As winter sets in, cold weather brings slippery surfaces, icy sidewalks, and other hazards that can lead to injuries at home, work, or on the road. To help you stay safe, we’ve compiled essential tips to prevent slips, trips, falls, cold-related injuries, and other seasonal dangers.
Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls
Slips, trips, and falls are a leading cause of injuries in the U.S. Wet surfaces, hidden hazards, and icy walkways increase the risk. Here’s how to stay steady on your feet:
- Wear Proper Footwear: Use non-slip boots or shoes with strong traction.
- Watch Your Step: Be mindful of wet leaves, icy patches, and uneven surfaces.
- Keep Walkways Clear: Regularly remove wet leaves, snow, and debris from stairs, driveways, and pathways.
- Use Handrails: Hold onto handrails on stairs and ramps.
- “Walk Like a Penguin”: On icy surfaces, take short, slow steps with your feet slightly outward for better stability.
Shoveling Snow Safely
Shoveling snow can strain your back, muscles, and heart. Stay safe with these techniques:
- Warm Up First: Stretch your muscles to prevent injury.
- Shovel Smart: Scoop small amounts of snow at a time. Push, rather than lift, heavy snow.
- Lift Safely: Use your legs to lift, not your back. Keep your back straight, squat down, and avoid twisting or turning.
- Take Breaks: Avoid exhaustion by taking frequent breaks to rest and hydrate.
Cold Weather Injuries: Frostbite and Hypothermia
When temperatures drop, exposure to extreme cold can lead to frostbite and hypothermia. Here’s how to recognize and prevent these dangerous conditions. If you need a safe space during inclement weather, please visit your nearest YMCA facility for help and resources.
Frostbite Signs:
- Red, white, or grayish-yellow skin
- Waxy, firm skin or numbness in affected areas
Hypothermia Signs:
- Early: Shivering, fatigue, confusion, poor coordination
- Late: Blue skin, dilated pupils, slowed breathing, unconsciousness
Prevention Tips:
- Layer Up: Wear loose-fitting, layered clothing, a hat, and mittens (not gloves) for better warmth.
- Protect Your Lungs: Cover your mouth with a scarf to prevent lung irritation.
- Stay Dry: Wet clothing increases heat loss, so stay dry at all costs.
First Aid for Frostbite and Hypothermia:
- Move the person to a warm shelter and remove wet clothes.
- Use warm blankets, heating pads, or body heat to warm the core of their body.
- Do not rub frostbitten areas or give alcoholic drinks.
- If there’s no pulse, begin CPR if trained to do so.
Fire and Carbon Monoxide Safety
With increased use of fireplaces, space heaters, and generators, fire and carbon monoxide risks also rise. Protect your home and family with these measures:
- Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test them regularly to ensure they’re working.
- Proper Ventilation: Never use gas ovens or generators indoors, and always vent kerosene heaters.
- Use Fireplaces Safely: Never use gasoline to start a fire. Always keep a screen around open flames.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Use space heaters and wood-burning stoves according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Safe Winter Driving Tips
Winter driving presents challenges like limited visibility and icy roads. Follow these precautions to stay safe on the road:
- Plan Ahead: Choose main, well-lit routes and avoid unnecessary trips.
- Clear Your Vehicle: Remove all ice and snow from windows, mirrors, and headlights.
- Drive Slowly: Reduce speed and increase the distance between you and other vehicles.
- Avoid Fatigue: Don’t drive while drowsy. Fatigue slows your reaction time.
Stay Safe and Enjoy the Winter Season
Winter weather presents unique hazards, but with preparation and caution, you can prevent injuries and stay safe. Wear proper footwear, maintain clear walkways, use ladders carefully, and be mindful of cold exposure. Stay alert, drive safely, and keep fire and carbon monoxide safety in mind. By following these simple steps, you’ll be ready to handle winter’s challenges with confidence.
