With the winter months upon us, there are those who love the cold and snowy weather and those who don’t. Yet even with those who want Mother Nature to bring on the snow, sleet, and hail, there are dangers that come along with it.
Whether it’s the slips and falls to avoid, the back pain from shoveling snow, or just the ways to keep warm when spending time outdoors, let Ocean State Job Lot help you stay safe along the way. After all, no one wants to be laid up when they could be out enjoying some winter fun.
Dress for the Weather
If you’re going to go out for any amount of time, you will want to layer up. Wear several layers of clothes starting with a base layer that will up any moisture. Add in an insulating layer or two like fleece or wool and finish with a waterproof outer layer.
Don’t forget to protect your head, hands and neck. Hats, gloves, and scarves are a MUST for protection against the frigid temperatures. Finally, don’t forget your feet! Find the right pair of boots that not only fit properly but provide a good traction to prevent slips and falls especially when you are on snow and icy surfaces when you might be shoveling.
Helpful hint: Having a few heat, body, and toe warmers can come in handy when the temps really dip.
Hopefully, all this will help you avoid that dreaded cold or flu, along with frostbite and hypothermia.
Be Mindful of Outdoor Activities
Warm-up Properly: Before engaging in any physical activity, warm up your muscles with light exercise like stretching or walking. Think of it like exercise. You wouldn’t just start without a bit of stretching, that would leave your muscles screaming and aching for days.
Pace Yourself: Don’t be afraid to stop and take a break. Whether it’s shoveling snow, sledding down a hill, or having a snowball fight with the kids, avoid overexerting yourself. Listen to your body.
Stay Hydrated: This is very important! Even though it’s cold, staying hydrated can decrease your risk of injury.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Watch for slippery surfaces, icy patches, and other potential hazards. Stay clear of snowplows or neighbors’ snowblowers if you are shoveling while a storm is still going on.
Winter Sports Safety
If you are an active winter sports enthusiast and take your winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, or ice skating a bit more seriously, wear appropriate protective gear. Putting on helmets, knee and elbow pads, and more could cut down on unnecessary cuts and bruises.
If you’re new to winter sports, you might consider taking lessons from a qualified instructor. Know your limits and don’t attempt things you know you wouldn’t or couldn’t ordinarily want to do.
Prevent Slips and Falls
Clear Ice and Snow: Keep walkways, driveways, and steps clear of ice and snow. But don’t do it all at once. Using a proper technique of lifting with your legs with a proper shovel and doing a little at a time will help avoid that back pain.
Use sand or salt for traction. Always have extra ice melt on hand! Make sure shovels and brooms are accessible before the storm hits. Don’t wait until the skies open up and the snow starts falling to start searching. Make sure you’re stocked on all the ice melt, shovels, and driveway markers you need at your local Ocean State Job Lot. Don’t forget the ice scrapers and brushes for the car too. Find out more on how to winterize your car or truck in this blog post.
Use Handrails: When walking on stairs or ramps, always use handrails for support. This is a rule for everyone, not just the older folks. Injuries have no age limits.
Walk Slowly and Carefully: Take your time. Take short steps and avoid rushing. Your destination will still be there if you take a bit longer.
Take Care of Yourself
The best way to avoid getting injured is first to be healthy. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and managing your stress to boost your immune system.
If you do injure yourself at any point, please seek medical attention, if needed. If you experience any signs of injury, such as pain, swelling, or numbness, seek medical attention promptly.
Hopefully, if you follow these tips, your winter will be wonderful and white and full of pleasureful memories with family and friends.
Winter Weather Collection
