Winter Safety Tips
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When You’re Commuting to Work or Running Errands:
- Avoid traveling on ice-covered roads if possible.
- Allow for extra driving time to arrive safely to your destination.
- Pack extra clothes, boots, blankets, flashlights, and phone chargers in your vehicle.
- Check for icy surfaces with both feet before leaving your vehicle.
- Walk like a penguin. Keep your hands free. Make sure you are wearing sturdy shoes with good grip. Shuffle frequently. Carry your belongings in a back pack.
- Allow extra time so you can walk slowly and carefully. Do not run!
- If you have car trouble or get stranded somewhere, stay in your vehicle until help arrives.
- Check out these additional winter driving tips!
When You’re Indoors During a Winter Storm:
- Be careful while using space heaters or fireplaces, and avoid using candles during a power outage.
- Know where your flashlights are and keep extra batteries on hand.
- Leave water taps slightly open to prevent freezing pipes.
- Eat well-balanced meals to stay warm.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine because they can cause your body to lose heat more rapidly.
- If you have elderly friends or neighbors, check on them frequently to ensure that their homes are adequately heated.
When You’re Outdoors During a Winter Storm:
- Dress in layers and wear hats, scarves, and mittens.
- Take every precaution to avoid prolonged exposure to the elements.
- Avoid walking on ice.
- Avoid getting wet.
- If you have to shovel snow or do other outdoor work, work in small intervals and go inside frequently to warm up.
- If you have elderly neighbors, offer to help shovel their walkways or driveways.
Click here for winter injury prevention tips.