Safety Tips for Winter FUN TIME
Are you ready for winter fun? Enjoy it even more with these top tips to chase the chill and prevent common cold-weather injuries:
- Layer up. Stay warm and dry with an inner layer of polypropylene, a middle layer of polar fleece and an outer layer of nylon. Skip the cotton, since it’s a poor insulator and can trap moisture.
- Protect hands and feet. Warm, dry socks and gloves keep you cozy and prevent circulatory problems.
- Wear a helmet. It’s a great idea whether you’re skiing, sledding or snowmobiling.
- Avoid alcohol.It reduces your core temperature even if it seems like it’s warming you up.
- Take time to stretch. Cold tends to contract your muscles, and tight muscles can be more prone to injury.
- Dress to be seen. Bright colors help drivers notice pedestrians in challenging or low-visibility conditions.
- Penguin-walk your way across an unexpected icy patch. Here’s how: Shorten your steps, widen your stance slightly, extend your arms a bit from your side, bend forward slightly and walk as flat-footed as possible until you’re back on solid footing.
- Fall like a stunt person. What if you still lose your balance? In the split second you have before the fall, try to bend your knees and elbows and tuck or turn your head to protect it. If possible, land on your backside or thigh and roll with the fall to diffuse the impact. While it’s natural to reach out an arm to catch yourself, that move unfortunately increases your risk of wrist injury.
- Let someone know where you're going and when you'll be back. If you run into trouble (hello, dead car battery!) and don't return on time, you won't have to rely solely on cell service to get help.
I hope you have fun and safe winter!
PLEASE remember that YOU are YOUR own FIRST RESPONDER
PREPARED NOT SCARED
Until next time,
Hayley D.