11/21/2024
Winter safety ❄️ 🥶
Let’s talk about winter safety this week!
The weather is getting cold, and seasonal temperatures continue falling steadily this time of year!!
As winter is approaching, it is important for us to know how to prepare for the season and keep ourselves safe in case of an emergency.
1. Avoid frostbite & hypothermia
- Wear protective, warm, layered clothing like winter coats, gloves, hats, scarves, thermal clothing, and winter boots. This protects you from the cold weather
- Signs of frostbite: Pale grey, waxy textured skin in affected area cold to the touch, numbness and localized pain, swelling and blistering
- Signs of hypothermia: Confusion, lethargy, weakness, apathy, pale skin colour.
→ important!! Get medical assistance immediately if you notice these signs!
2. Always check weather forecast about the snow and temperature
- This helps you to better prepare and plan ahead before going outdoors like dressed up warmly, such as to avoid wind chills and extremely cold temperatures.
3. Keeping an emergency kit in the vehicle in case of an emergency
- A first aid kit, booster cables, gloves and hats, non perishable snacks, blanket, and candles would be a great start to protecting yourself while travelling or in case of an emergency
4. Beware of the icy roads and snow
- When driving on snowy or icy roads, keep in mind that it takes longer for vehicles to stop.
- Reduce your speed on slippery roads and give yourself plenty of room to stop
- Using winter tires or all season tires would also help your vehicle to deliver better traction on an ice or snow-covered road surface
5. Be nice, clear your ice
- Whether you are shoveling or skiing, always dress warmly in cold temperatures and avoid over-exerting yourself.
- Your heart has to work harder to pump blood through your blood vessels when they are constricted by the cold. Over-exerting with the added stress could trigger a heart attack or stroke
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