Depending on where you live, winter can be cold, dark, and gloomy. But, that’s no reason not to venture outdoors and take advantage of some of the unique things the season has to offer. Whether you love or hate it, there’s no denying that freshly-fallen snow is beautiful, and there are plenty of fun activities to keep you busy.
But, whether you’re ice skating, skiing, snow-shoeing, or just hiking a favorite trail this winter, it’s important to stay as safe as possible.
Safety should always be a priority whenever you’re venturing outdoors. But, winter comes with its own set of challenges and changes to be aware of. About 1 million Americans get injured each year just from falling on ice and snow. The better prepared you are for those potential risks, the safer you’ll be.
So, how can you get outside – especially with your family – and have fun this season while making sure everyone stays safe?
Planning Ahead
Whether you’re planning a winter vacation for the family or just venturing out across town for your regular commute, planning ahead will keep you safe and sound – especially during unpredictable weather and road conditions.
Keeping your car safe in the winter is one of the best ways to feel secure no matter where you are. That starts with making sure it’s well-maintained. Make sure the tires have been checked, your oil has been changed, and the engine is working properly before the cold and snowy weather sets in. The last thing you want is to break down on the side of the road in the middle of an ice storm. Additionally, make sure any specialized technology in your car is up-to-date and you know how to use it. Things like navigation systems and attention assist alerts can make sure you know where you’re going and you stay alert on the road.
Even if you’re just commuting during the winter months, planning for potential setbacks is important. Make sure to have the right items in your car in case you need to stop or you get stranded somewhere. Some of the bare necessities include:
- A snow brush
- A flashlight
- Flares
- Blankets
- Hand warmers
- First aid kit
- Extra gloves
Plan ahead for any trip this season – whether it’s down the street or across the country. Look at road conditions, weather forecasts, and the state of your vehicle to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
Dressing Appropriately
Even though winter is cold, it can be a lot of fun to get outside and play! Whether you have kids of your own or not, now is a perfect time to unleash your inner child and take advantage of exciting winter activities.
But, whether you’re walking down the street or ice skating at the local rink, dressing properly for the weather is crucial. Depending on the wind and temperatures, you can get frostbite in a matter of minutes if you aren’t properly protected. It’s even more important that your kids are protected, as they are more susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia in extremely cold temperatures.
According to the CDC, the most appropriate outdoor clothing for winter includes:
- A tightly-woven, wind-resistant coat/jacket
- Inner layers of light, warm clothing
- Mittens
- Hats
- Scarves
- Waterproof boots
If you plan on spending a lot of time outside with the family, you might also consider investing in snow pants – especially for your kids. Things like sledding, making a snowman, or even having an old-fashioned snowball fight can all be fun, but everyone can get soaked quickly if the right gear isn’t worn! Winter isn’t a time to skimp when it comes to layering up with the right clothes.
Knowing How to Keep Safe for Different Activities
Speaking of snowmen and snowball fights, it’s impossible to ignore all of the different activities winter can bring. But, keeping yourself and your kids safe during each one should be your top priority. Let’s look at a few common family fun activities and the steps you can take to ensure everyone enjoys themselves without increasing their risk of getting hurt.
- Ice skating: Only skate on approved surfaces, and never skate alone. Consider having children or inexperienced skaters wear a helmet and knee pads in case they frequently fall.
- Sledding: Always supervise your kids and make sure your sledding location is clear of traffic, trees, and crowds.
- Skiing: All equipment should fit properly for both kids and adults, and the slopes you choose should fit the abilities of whoever is skiing. If you’re going with younger kids, small slopes and flatter areas are better. It’s a worthwhile investment to sign your kids up for professional skiing/snowboarding lessons to ensure they learn all of the proper safety rules.
- Snowmobiling: Don’t let your children ride on a snowmobile if they are under the age of 6. If they are old enough to ride with you, travel at safe speeds and ensure they wear a helmet. You should wear a helmet and goggles if you’re driving, as well.
- Hiking: Winter hikes are a great way to see some beautiful sights and get in a family workout. Stay as hydrated as possible with water and herbal teas. Wear layers of clothing, and protect any exposed skin from the sun. Only go on familiar trails and make sure you don’t choose areas with rough terrain or a lot of potential ice.
These activities are just the tip of the iceberg (no pun intended) when it comes to spending time outside this season. They’re all great ways to get your kids playing outdoors and to spend more time together as a family. But, as you can see, knowing the basic safety rules of each will make a big difference.
Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or just trying to keep yourself and your family safe as you get through each day, you can face and embrace some of the challenges of winter with these safety tips in mind. Take the time to appreciate the beauty and uniqueness of the season, and you might find that you’ll spend more time outdoors than in years past.
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