Staying safe during winter at four seasons apartments in Omaha, Neb
Check out these winter safety tips:
1) Leave those comfy shoes at home
You may want to think twice about wearing out those house slippers. Smooth-soled comfort shoes, like moccasins should be avoided when venturing outside this winter. Smooth-soled comfort shoes, as well as shoes made of leather and plastic, don’t offer the grip you need in icy conditions. Choose rubber or neoprene soled shoes instead for better stability and a surer step.
2) Grab that Gore-Tex
Wear layers, get that poofy coat on, and wrap yourself up nice and warm when venturing out. Even if you think your stint outside will only take a minute, remember it takes far less than a minute for an injury to occur. Bundling up decreases the tendency to hurry and to tense your muscles from the cold, both of which greatly increase your chances of falling. So be sure to bundle up super snug this season and don’t forget your hat. Mom really was right.
3) Map it out
You should take time in advance to prepare for your trips around town. Determine the roads you are taking and when you realistically should leave for your destination. If you are running late you might be tempted to take that shortcut. Back roads and subdivisions are less likely to be plowed than major streets and freeways, and may ensnare your car if you’re not careful. Also when walking, be especially sure to stick to cleared and level paths.
4) Focus and slow it down
Be aware of deep snow patches and ice on your path. Rushing and being unaware of the conditions around you can be hazardous. Carrying too many groceries at once can also put you in harm’s way by altering your center of gravity and not allowing you to use your arms for balance. Plan on extra trips or travel time to and from your destination, and take slower, smaller steps.
5) Hazardous conditions ahead
Much like traffic signs, there are clues along our way that cue us in on possible dangers. We need to remain vigilant of these, and take care in higher risk situations. There are several that you want to pay special attention to. The caution signs: Getting into and out of cars and vans, climbing outdoor steps, and walking in the dark.
6) Care for your cane
If you are using a cane for balance, be sure to spruce it up with a wide non-slip tip or icepick. The icepick attachment is designed to better penetrate the snow and provide improved traction.
7) I’m inside, I’m home free! Think again
After we’ve trudged through snow, sleet, hail, and wind, we need to remain careful. Many accidents happen in the home and not in the treacherous environments we may think. Smooth floors and wet shoes are not a good match. Wipe your shoes or boots on floor mats or scrapers to minimize risk.
8) Find your center
Balance and muscle strength are crucial for maintaining stability in slippery conditions, let alone overall health and wellbeing. Studies have found that low impact strength training enhances flexibility, muscle tone, and balance, which are crucial for reducing the frequency and severity of falls.
If you DO fall: Avoid trying to catch yourself with your arms. Fall in sequential contacts, with your thigh, hip and shoulder to avoid breakage. Bend your back and tuck your head forward to avoid hitting it on the pavement.
these tips were found at the following link:
https://pt-cpr.com/connect/blog/item/61-8-tips-for-staying-safe-this-winter