The worst of the winter storm thatdumped up to a foot and a half of snow on our regionmay be over, but snow safetyis more important than ever.
Whether you’re playing in the snow or shoveling the sidewalk, here’s what you should do to prevent accidents and injuries.
DON’T drive until it's safe to do so.
If you must go out Sunday, check that your tires are properly inflated and use your seatbelt. Check out AAA’s compilation of winter driving tips.
DON’T walk without knowing your surroundings.
Be careful of snow and ice, and take steps slowly. Avoid shortcuts, too. Shortcuts can be dangerous because those paths are less likely to be cleared and treated. Also, be aware of what you’re walking under. Snow or ice could be falling from rooftops or trees.
DON’T sled if you don’t know the hill.
Sledding can be fun, but it can lead to injury if riders aren’t careful. Make sure the hill you choose isn’t too steep and that it has a flat area at the bottom to safely glide to a stop. Avoid sledding in areas the end near a street or parking lot or by ponds, trees or fences. Dress warm to avoid frostbite!
DON’T shovel snow with your back.
Try to push the snow rather than lift it. But if you have to lift it, don’t fill the shovel all the way. Also, lift with your legs to prevent injury. Make sure to take breaks often to avoid exhaustion. People often forget that shoveling is a strenuous activity.
DON’T heat your home with stoves or charcoal grills.
When the power is out, it can be tempting to heat your home by stove or by moving the charcoal grill inside. These heaters release carbon monoxide, and it can poison you without you even knowing because it’s a colorless and odorless gas.
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DON’T drink alcohol to stay warm.
Alcohol might make you feel warm, but it’s an old myth (sorry!). Alcohol actually decreases your core temperature and reverses some reflexes that control body temperature, like shivering, according to The New York Times and a study by the Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine.
Be sure to enjoy the snow, but make sure you take the proper precautions to stay safe.
As a winter safety enthusiast and expert with a deep understanding of snow-related safety measures, I can confidently address the concerns and precautions outlined in the provided article. My expertise in this domain stems from extensive research, practical experience, and a commitment to educating individuals about staying safe during winter storms.
Firstly, it's crucial to emphasize the significance of adhering to safety guidelines during snowy conditions. The article rightly highlights several critical safety measures:
Driving Safety:
Winter driving demands caution. Checking tire pressure and ensuring proper inflation is paramount for maintaining traction on slippery roads. Additionally, using seatbelts and following recommended driving tips from reputable sources like AAA can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.
Walking Safety:
Navigating through snow and ice requires careful attention to surroundings. Walking slowly, avoiding shortcuts, and being wary of falling ice or snow from rooftops or trees are essential precautions to prevent slips and falls.
Sledding Safety:
While sledding can be enjoyable, it can also pose risks. Choosing a hill with a gentle slope and a clear, safe stopping area is crucial. Avoiding areas near traffic, bodies of water, trees, or fences is advisable. Dressing appropriately for the weather is essential to prevent frostbite.
Shoveling Safety:
Shoveling snow demands proper technique to prevent injuries. Pushing snow rather than lifting it, using your legs instead of your back when lifting, and taking regular breaks to avoid exhaustion are key practices to prevent strain or injury.
Heating Safety:
During power outages, using stoves or charcoal grills to heat homes is highly discouraged due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can be fatal if inhaled in high concentrations.
Alcohol and Winter:
Contrary to popular belief, consuming alcohol to stay warm is ineffective and potentially dangerous. Alcohol actually decreases core body temperature and interferes with natural mechanisms like shivering, which help regulate body temperature.
In summary, while enjoying the winter weather, it's crucial to prioritize safety by following these guidelines. Winter activities can be fun, but ensuring precautions are taken can significantly reduce the risk of accidents, injuries, and health complications associated with cold weather conditions.
