Winter Safety Tips to Stay Safe and Healthy

Winter in the Upper Peninsula is full of joyful outdoor activities and annual traditions — but winter also brings its fair share of chores — including shoveling. The fresh snowfall and the constant need to keep our driveway, sidewalks, and roof clean help remind us that wintery weather is here for a little while longer. Here are some tips to help you stay warm, healthy, and safe, especially during extremely cold and snowy weather.

Prevent Injuries When Shoveling or Clearing Snow

Avoid lifting heavy snow. Shoveling snow is a strenuous exercise and moving pounds of snow and slush is exhausting. If the snow feels heavy or compacted, it is best to not shovel. Heavy, wet snow causes extra weight on your muscles, legs, back, core, shoulders, arms and most importantly your heart.

Average snowfall is substantially high across the Upper Peninsula — and clearing that snow is a daily task. When shoveling snow, protect your back muscles by keeping your back as straight as possible. Take your time with smaller loads of snow, and bend and lift with your knees to avoid injury.

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.

If you get injured from slipping or while shoveling snow, don’t let that injury take you out for the season. Ask your primary care provider about rehabilitation.

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 there are 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.

To prepare your car for a winter storm, make sure everything is in working order. Start by checking your tire pressure — this can often drop as the temperature does. To avoid accumulating ice in the gas tank and fuel lines, be sure to keep the gas tank as near full as possible. Keep an emergency kit ready with first-aid, a shovel, an ice scraper, and battery cables.

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.