This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

Before You Head Out in the Cold

Consider the following tips for staying safe when it's cold out. Although most of these are common sense, it never hurts to be reminded of them.

Winter is almost here. Consider the following tips for staying safe when it’s cold out. Although most of these are common sense, it never hurts to be reminded of them. 

  • Limit the amount of time you spend outside, particularly if temperatures are so cold that you can suffer frostbite.
  • When outdoors, dress warmly, but choose loose fitting, layered, lightweight clothing. Wear a hat and protect your hands, ears and neck. 
  • Your feet need protecting too, particularly when it is slippery outside. Shoes and boots should have non-skid soles.
  • Wear rubber sole boots for better traction in the snow.
  • Definitely wear a hat or scarf, but be careful not to block sound altogether, or for that matter, your vision.
  • Protect your skin with heavier lotions and creams.
  • If you use a cane, replace the rubber tip before its worn smooth as it will become slippery when it gets wet.
  • To reduce the chance of falling when leaving the house, use rock salt, sand, or some other de-icing compounds to prevent falling on ice that may be on the steps and/or walkways. 
  • Know your physical limitations, especially if you are working outside. Do not over exert yourself. Be aware of the signs and symptoms of a heart attack such as nausea and chest pains.
  • Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working at home.
  • Never use your range or oven to heat your home.
  • Winterize your car.  It needs to be protected from the cold too.

Finally, if the forecast calls for very dangerous weather, stay home unless you’re advised by emergency management agencies to move to a safer area.   

Have a safe and enjoyable winter!

Find out what's happening in New Brunswickwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Courtesy of Kaytie Olshefski, RNC, BS, nursing coordinator of Adult Senior Communities in Monroe Township, on behalf of Saint Peter’s University Hospital. Visit our website to learn more about primary care services available at the Monroe Township, New Brunswick and Piscataway locations of the Saint Peter’s Comprehensive Care Group, as well as information about urgent care services in Skillman.

 

Find out what's happening in New Brunswickwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

 

 

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?