During the winter season, taking necessary precautions is crucial to ensure safety and well-being in cold and challenging conditions. Dressing in layers, with moisture-wicking base layers and insulated outerwear, helps to retain body heat. Wearing appropriate footwear with good traction prevents slips on icy surfaces. Protecting extremities with hats, gloves, and scarves minimizes heat loss. Staying hydrated, even in cold weather, is vital for overall health. Being cautious of ice and using proper equipment for outdoor tasks reduces the risk of accidents. Regular breaks indoors to warm up, staying informed about weather forecasts, and employing the buddy system for outdoor activities are essential practices. Familiarizing oneself with the signs of frostbite and hypothermia ensures prompt medical attention when needed. By following these winter precautions, individuals can enjoy the season’s beauty while safeguarding their well-being.
It is recommended to wear several layers of clothing rather than one thick layer, to wear synthetic fabrics next to the skin, to “wick” away sweat, to wear a wind-resistant outer layer, and avoid wearing tight-fitting footwear restricting blood flow.
Don’t work alone.
Take breaks, as needed, to warm up. During your holiday, replace lost fluids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Watch out for signs of hypothermia in yourself and others: Shivering, dizziness, hunger, nausea, trouble speaking, confusion, increased breathing rate, blue lips, and fingers, numbness at extremities, drowsiness, and clumsiness. If these are noticed, bring the person inside to an area where they can warm up.
Dress in Layers: Layering is key to staying warm in cold weather. Wear moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away from your body, insulating layers for warmth, and a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect against the elements.
Wear Proper Footwear: Choose insulated, waterproof, and non-slip footwear to keep your feet warm and prevent slipping on icy surfaces. Wool or thermal socks are excellent choices for added insulation.
Protect Your Extremities: Don’t forget to wear a hat, gloves, and a scarf to cover your head, hands, and neck. These areas are particularly susceptible to heat loss, so keeping them covered is essential.
Stay Hydrated: Even in cold weather, staying hydrated is crucial. Cold air can be dehydrating, so remember to drink water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
Take Breaks Indoors: When working on outdoor tasks, take periodic breaks indoors to warm up and rest. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia.
Staying inside at home:
Have some extra food, a generator with fuel, and temporary heating sources.
NEVER use a generator inside a home, basement, shed, or garage, even if doors and windows are open. Keep portable generators outside, away from windows, and as far away from your home as possible. Carbon monoxide poisoning from generators has unfortunately already taken lives this winter. To protect you and your family, installing and testing carbon monoxide alarms at least once a month is also a good idea.
Check the local forecasts before you go out. Check 511 for current road conditions. This is available online at https://511ia.org/ and is available on the app store.
