Winter is just around the corner, and that can only mean one thing: winter hazards. Parents, workers, and everyone in between will soon be getting ready for the harsh snowstorms and destructive winds. Although the winter is often one of the most anticipated seasons with plenty of upsides, it is not without its dangers. Here are four tips to help you and your family stay safe this winter season.
Bundling Up
When it comes to winter, the first thing we think of is how we are going to keep warm. Even if you work within a warm building, there’s a high probability that you still need to walk outdoors to get into your building. There are plenty of warm and comfortable coats appropriate for wearing to work. Parents must also remember that children spend a good amount of time outdoors and also need the proper clothing for staying warm while having fun. Plan for water-resistant insulated boots, mittens, coat, and hat at least. In particularly cold areas, you may need extras such as snow pants, face masks, neck warmers, earmuffs, and thermal underwear.
Take it Slow
No matter how late you are to a meeting or class, you can’t afford to go running around or speeding like you did during summer. Many areas of the country experience black ice, which is essentially a thin layer of ice frozen on top of a road, and as its name suggests, most people can’t see it. As a result, they slip and slide. In a car, this can result in a wreck. As a pedestrian, you can suffer a nasty fall. The costs of a slip and fall on snow or ice can cause you up to 40K. Other slipping hazards include the pile-up snow within your front yard. Be sure to clear the snow off your yard before it accumulates to a dangerous height.
Add an Emergency Kit to Your Car
There are more winter hazards on the road than just black ice and snow accumulation. Not surprisingly, this means that car accidents are much more common during the winter season. And if you live in an area that experiences blizzards, you’re in for extra danger like going off the road or getting snowbound. As a precaution, it’s good to have an emergency kit in your car. Items such as blankets, an emergency radio, flashlights, flares, water, and snacks are good to include. These items will allow you to stay relatively comfortable and safe while waiting for first responders to get to your location.
Keep Relatives and Friends Aware of Your location
This may seem like doing too much for most, but when it comes to extremely cold weather, minutes matter. It is very important to make others aware of your location. Young children should be taught this because they are often prone to exploring outside during winter. Night runners and hikers should also follow this tip, as this could save their life.
Winter has many things to look forward to — family holidays, snow days, hot chocolate, sledding, sitting in front of the fire, etc. — but it’s important to remember that it comes with its fair share of dangers. Following these tips can help keep you and your family safe this winter season.
Read more: Top 10 Facts That You Didn’t Know About Winter
