Winter Wonderland Hazards: How to Stay Safe and Avoid
Common Cold- Weather Injuries
While we may get a good laugh from viral videos of people fumbling on ice, injuries that come from these falls can be dangerous. Increased ice and snowfall in winter means everyone should be cautious when treading through this rugged weather, especially those traveling to winter wonderlands this season! Be aware of common winter injuries and causes. With increased risk for injuries during the winter, be aware of the most common types of accidents. The most typical situations leading to severe injury during winter include:
Lastly, take it slow. When walking on ice, be sure not to rush. Slow, short steps are much safer than quick, long strides. Also, ensure you have your cellphone with you in case of an emergency. Drive safely in winter conditions. We should always be driving with the utmost caution, but traveling in winter conditions requires you to be even more alert and prepared. Slick roads and snow-covered streets are a recipe for disaster, but there are a few ways to prevent a collision and keep yourself safe. First, installing winter-grade tires is always a good idea as the season begins in full force. These tires are designed to handle slippery roads, icy conditions, and freezing temperatures. Next, inspect your brakes and your entire vehicle to ensure it can safely drive through winter weather. Finally, use good judgment; if you don’t have to go outside in severe weather, don’t! Play winter sports with caution. For many, winter means the best sports and activities, including snowboarding, skiing, ice hockey, and much more. However, because these sports occur on slippery ice and snow, you’re more prone to injuries. To stay safe, take some extra precautions: Do some warmup exercises. • Wear protective gear, including helmets, gloves, padding, and goggles. • Always stay informed of the weather conditions and heed any storm warnings. • Have fun with a friend in case of an emergency. • Stay hydrated to prevent exhaustion. • Know what to do if you experience an injury. Injuries happen, and it’s essential to assess the severity of the damage as soon as you can. If pain is recurring, seek help from a medical professional. Undergoing treatment as soon as possible is the best way to ensure a speedy and complete recovery. With these wintertime safety tips, you can stay happy and healthy this season! Have fun!
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Slipping and falling on ice
Getting into a car accident caused by icy roads and snowstorms Participating in winter sports and activities
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The resulting injury from any of these situations can occur anywhere throughout the body and range in severity. Shoulder pain, wrist strains, back injuries, head injuries, hip fractures, and ankle sprains are just a few common examples. The best way to prevent an injury is to take safety precautions, especially when facing the season’s harsh elements. Stay safe on the ice. Falling on ice can be painful and even lead to severe injuries for older adults. Salting your driveways and sidewalks is one of the best ways to keep them slip-free so you can avoid a disastrous fall. Another critical way to prevent falls is wearing proper footwear for icy conditions. If you know you’ll be outdoors, put on winter boots or sneakers with good traction!
2 • KaizenSeattle.com
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