Dangers to Avoid This Winter

This is a paid post contributed by a Patch Community Partner. The views expressed in this post are the author's own, and the information presented has not been verified by Patch.

If you choose not to “snowbird” in a warmer climate, you either relish or endure the snow and cold during the winter months. To fully enjoy outdoor activities, following some safety practices is essential. Here are some things to avoid so you can stay safe throughout the cold winter.

Slips and Falls: According to the CDC, 1 in 4 people 65 and older fall annually. During the winter, common sense is the best prevention. Pay attention to your surroundings, both indoors and outdoors. Wear sensible shoes with good traction, use handrails when available, and utilize a cane or walker if necessary. Walk like a penguin, using small steps and keeping your hands out.

If the weather outside is treacherous, stay inside! However, if you must shovel your driveway, perform light stretches before heading out. Take frequent breaks to rest and warm up. Use ice melt on your drive and stairs. Again, if the weather outside is truly frightful, stay indoors. Your mail and garbage can wait.

If you do fall, don’t brace yourself with your arms; try to land on your buttocks…there’s a reason God gave us extra cushion there. Take a moment to assess any injuries you may have sustained. If you have your cell phone or mobile medical device with you, call for help. If safe, wait for help to arrive before getting up.

Heart Attack: The risk of heart attack increases in temps below 54 degrees F. Cold air causes your heart to work harder to keep the blood flowing.

If you develop chest pain, tightness, pressure, shortness of breath, or numbness, immediately stop what you are doing and rest. If the symptoms don’t immediately disappear, call 911.

In addition to monitoring your activity, seven to nine hours of sleep and stress management play a crucial role in heart health.

Hypothermia and Frostbite: Be aware of both hypothermia and frostbite symptoms.

Hypothermia is a life-threatening condition that occurs when your body temperature falls below 95 degrees F. Early symptoms can include shivering, fatigue, loss of coordination, confusion, and disorientation.

Frostbite is an injury that damages your skin. Symptoms of frostbite include numbness, skin discoloration, reduced blood flow to hands and feet, aching, tingling, or stinging.

You can reduce your risk by minimizing your time outdoors when it’s cold or when the wind chill is extreme. Dress in loose layers with a hat covering your ears, mittens (with gloves underneath), and a scarf to keep your nose from the elements. Stay dry and take plenty of breaks in a warm area. Bring a change of clothes and some hot liquid if traveling. Avoid drinking alcohol before going outside or soon after coming in.

Influenza: The best defense against the flu is your yearly flu shot. Staying active, eating nutritious and balanced meals, and maintaining a healthy weight, can help with mobility, heart health, and overall health. Finally, consider taking a vitamin D supplement since the sunshine doesn’t visit West Michigan often enough in the winter.

If the winter weather becomes too much to handle, consider the warmth and support of Victorian Village, where you’ll find a welcoming community and access to services that keep you safe and comfortable. Prefer to stay at home? Providence at Home provides in-home care tailored to your needs, ensuring you remain safe and secure without braving the elements. Learn more at Providence Life Services.

This post is an advertorial piece contributed by a Patch Community Partner, a local brand partner. To learn more, click here.