Did you know that 39 million ER visits every year are related to injuries? Injury prevention should be a concern year-round, but there are some special considerations to keep in mind during the winter months. Not only is it peak flu season, but there are lots of other cold-weather health hazards to contend with.
Here are five easy ways you can boost your chances of staying out of the ER during the winter months.
Steer Clear of the Flu
Flu activity often peaks between December and February. The best way to avoid getting the flu is by getting a flu shot. Even if you’ve gotten a flu shot this year, it’s important to take other preventative measures to avoid spreading germs and getting sick. Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. This is especially important when you’re in a place with a lot of people, such as work or school.Â
Use Caution With Heaters
Keeping your home warm is important, especially during winter storms that can bring power failure. However, heating your home can be treacherous if you don’t take the right precautions. Test all smoke detectors, and protect yourself from carbon monoxide poisoning by installing carbon monoxide detectors.
If you have an electric space heater, ensure that you keep it a safe distance away from flammable materials. Be sure to turn off space heaters before leaving the room or going to sleep. If you can, buy a space heater with an automatic shut-off.
Avoid Falling
Slips and falls are common in the wintertime when surfaces are slippery from ice and snow — even when walking on even ground. In 2014, there were over 42,000 workplace injuries due to ice, sleet or snow. This can be especially problematic for older adults, who are more prone to severe injury from falls.
Keep driveways and walkways clear of snow and ice. Wearing proper footwear — flat shoes with great traction — can be helpful for preventing falls. Be cautious when walking, and take slow, careful steps.
Shovel Carefully
When it snows, shoveling may be necessary in order to walk and drive safely. However, snow shoveling is highly strenuous. When the task isn’t approached properly, it can cause illness and injury. According to Nationwide Children’s Hospital study, about 100 people die every year while shoveling snow. The cause? Heart attacks.
Snow shoveling increases your heart rate and blood pressure, while the cold air causes arteries to constrict. For some, this can increase the risk of experiencing a heart attack.
Don’t shovel without your doctor’s approval if you have heart issues. Soreness, strain and pulled muscles can also be a concern when shoveling. Stretch before you begin, and take frequent breaks. Also be sure to lift with your legs, not your back.
Dress Appropriately
Aside from helping you feel more comfortable, dressing appropriately could save your life. Bundle up in layers to avoid hypothermia and frostbite. Both of these potentially life-threatening conditions are caused by overexposure to extreme cold. Keep your head covered, and wear mittens instead of gloves. If you find yourself in wet clothes, make sure that you change out of them quickly.
