Staying Safe and Healthy This Winter

Winter is here! The snowy season brings a fresh slate of fun — outdoor activities,  picturesque snowscapes, and tons of annual traditions. But with the sheer amount of downfall and accumulation we get here in the Upper Peninsula also comes the extra burden of snow removal and necessary caution to stay safe. 

Here are some tips to help you stay warm, healthy, and safe, especially during extremely cold and snowy weather: 

Drive With Extra Caution

Snow and ice can accumulate quickly on roadways making for treacherous driving conditions. Please monitor the condition of our roads when traveling and plan your trips accordingly. Clear the snow and completely defrost the ice buildup from your vehicle with attention to the windshield, drive SLOW, and give yourself extra time to reach your destination. It's smart to keep a stocked emergency kit in your vehicle with first-aid supplies, a shovel, an ice scraper, battery cables, water, and extra blankets. 

Prevent Injuries When Shoveling or Clearing Snow

When shoveling, protect your back muscles by keeping them as straight as possible. Take your time with smaller snow loads, and bend and lift with your knees to avoid injury. If the snow feels heavy or compacted, it's best not to shovel as that can put extra stress on your muscles and, most importantly, your heart. 

Take Extra Precautions on Icy Walkways

Some of the most common winter injuries involve slipping or falling on icy surfaces — such as sidewalks or stairways. It’s much easier to keep your balance when walking slowly and with smaller steps. Use salt or sand to increase the traction on walkways. Wipe off your shoes properly to prevent slipping indoors.

Prepare Ahead of Winter Storms

When the weather forecast calls for a winter storm, the best way to stay safe is to plan ahead. Assess windows, doors, and the roof, ensuring no cracks or leaks, and apply extra insulation when possible. Installing plastic covers on the inside of windows is one affordable option to help make the most of your home’s heating.

Watch Out for Hypothermia or Frostbite

Staying out in the cold for too long, especially without proper cold-weather gear, can cause hypothermia and frostbite. By learning how to spot early signs of these cold-related health dangers, you can help protect yourself, your loved ones, and even your pets. Some early signs of hypothermia are shivering, confusion, and/or very low energy. Frostbitten areas will be numb, unusually firm, and discolored. Learn more from the CDC website.

Take Care of Your Mental Well-Being

One winter hazard that is sometimes forgotten is the depleted levels of sunlight. This can affect mood, sleeping patterns, and other behaviors. Be sure to stay as active as possible, soaking up daylight whenever you can. Spend time with family and friends, get adequate, balanced sleep, and maintain a balanced, healthy diet.

For some people, the “winter blues” are actually something more — a type of depression known as seasonal affective disorder. If you feel like this season is getting the best of you, you may want to seek help from a professional. Your primary care provider can help you identify your symptoms and refer you to a specialist, such as a psychologist.

Now that winter is here to stay for a few more months, remember to enjoy all the unique things the season brings while keeping your family’s health and safety in mind.

Need a provider? Visit the Find a Provider tab at UPHealthSystem.com and we’ll get you connected with the right care.