Saturday, December 9, 2023
Latest:
People

Safety tips: How to prevent common winter injuries

Dominic Lill , 

Winter is a great season for outdoor activities; however, despite the beauty of the snow, it is very easy to get injured.

Injuries can happen when you least expect it. The ice is slippery, and it can be tough to walk without sliding. Winter injuries can severely impact the head, back, shoulders, neck, and various joints. The good news is that you can prevent such injuries and enjoy the winter season to the fullest.

Safety tips on how to avoid injuries during winter

Engage in safe snow shovelling

Snow shovelling is a strenuous activity and can be risky if safety measures are not put in place. The snow is heavy, and a shovel can be heavy too. This can strain the back and muscles leading to mild or severe pain later.

If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart problems, avoid this kind of work. You can request or hire someone to do the job. Working in the cold temperature increases your heart rate as well as the blood pressure; this means that the heart is working harder than it should be. Strenuous activities like shovelling are the perfect ingredient for a heart attack and heart-related problems. Here is how to shovel snow the safe way:

  • Start with warming up your muscles. You can jog or stretch a bit to get your body ready for the task ahead.
  • Put on the right clothes, including gloves, warm hat, waterproof clothing, and boots.
  • Take a break of 15 minutes after a few shovels. If you experience any pain, stop working and take a rest. Be vigilant of any sign of heart attack and call 911 if you experience any of them.
  • Drink plenty of water when shovelling the snow.
  • Always push the snow rather than lifting it.

Take extra care when driving

During winter, it will be best if you avoid driving as much as possible. The roads are usually slippery, and there is poor road visibility. Gritting makes the roads operational while reducing the chances of accidents. So look out for gritted roads, they are safer. Also, take your car for servicing just before winter to make sure it is ready for the harsh winter roads, and the battery is strong enough to last you through the cold season. Besides, always have an emergency kit that includes touch, matchbox, and cell phone, water, and blankets in your car all the time.

Prevent accidental falls

Many cases of unintentional falls are reported in emergency rooms during winter. It is one of the worst accidents you can experience. Unexpected falls can lead to back injuries, concussions, and broken bones. It is particularly dangerous for senior citizens as it complicates their already compromised health. Here is how to prevent falls during winter:

  • Get rid of ice and snow in your driveway or sidewalk.
  • Walk on well-lit paths within your home.
  • Wear footwear that has traction for a good grip as you walk.
  • Walk carefully and slowly at any time you step outside.
  • Use handrails where possible for support.

Conclusion

Winter is a beautiful season. You should not let possible injuries hinder you from having fun this time of the year. Just take extra care, and in case of an injury, seek medical attention immediately. Additionally, if you are an employer, take steps to keep your workers safe and winter-proof the workplace.