Winter Safety: A Guide from Mt. Grant General Hospital
Winter can be a beautiful season, but it also presents unique safety challenges. By taking proactive steps, you can help ensure a safe and healthy winter for you and your family. Here's what you need to know about vehicle and household preparedness, as well as preventing common winter injuries.
Vehicle Preparedness
Driving in winter conditions can be hazardous. Being prepared is the best way to prevent accidents and avoid being stranded.
- Emergency Kit: Assemble a kit for your car that includes essentials like a first-aid kit, flashlight, blankets, non-perishable food, water, and an ice scraper.
- Tires: Check your tire pressure regularly, as it can drop in colder temperatures. Consider installing winter tires for better traction on snow and ice.
- Fluids: Ensure your vehicle's fluids are topped off, especially windshield washer fluid and antifreeze.
- Battery: Have your car's battery checked by a mechanic before the cold weather hits. Cold temperatures can significantly reduce battery performance.
Household Preparedness
Preparing your home for winter is crucial for staying safe and warm.
- Heating System: Have your furnace or heating system serviced by a professional to ensure it is running efficiently and safely.
- Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they are working correctly. Replace the batteries as needed.
- Pipes: Protect exposed pipes from freezing by insulating them. Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.
- Generators: If you use a portable generator during a power outage, always operate it outdoors and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
Slips, Trips, and Falls
Falls are a leading cause of injury during the winter, often resulting in fractures and sprains.
- Footwear: Wear appropriate footwear with good traction to navigate icy sidewalks and driveways.
- Clear Walkways: Keep your sidewalks, steps, and driveway free of snow and ice. Use salt or sand to improve traction.
- Lighting: Ensure outdoor lights are working to illuminate walkways and prevent falls in the dark.
- Be Mindful: Walk slowly and deliberately, especially on wet or icy surfaces. Use handrails on stairs and hold onto sturdy objects for support when needed.
By following these simple steps, you can significantly reduce your risk of winter-related injuries and stay safe throughout the season.
