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IBX Insights

Winter Safety Tips

By January 27, 2020June 3rd, 2021Well-being Wellness
Looking down a quaint Philadelphia street in winter

Love it or hate it, winter’s here — and with the cold comes an increased risk of weather-related injuries. Make sure you’re ready for whatever the winter brings. Take these steps to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.

Stay Warm

  • Keep indoor temperatures at 65 degrees or warmer. If the expense is a problem, look into programs that may help with your energy bills.
  • Keep heat sources, like space heaters, at least three feet away from drapes, furniture, or bedding.
  • Never leave space heaters or lit candles, flames, or fireplaces unattended.
  • Avoid using extension cords to plug in a space heater.
  • If your space heater has a damaged electrical cord or produces sparks, do not use it.
  • When dressing to go outside, dress in layers (kids need one more layer than adults) and wear warm boots, a hat, mittens, and a scarf (to cover your nose and mouth).

Walk Safe

  • Keep kitty litter, sand, or salt on hand for icy walkways.
  • Clear away snow and salt your walkways at home or hire someone to do it.
  • Always wear proper footwear, walk at a slow pace, and watch where you step.
  • Remember your cell phone when you go out. Always let someone know where you are going and when you should be expected back.
  • During icy conditions and severe cold, consider taking advantage of prescription and grocery delivery services.

Prepare for a Power Outage

Avoid Carbon Monoxide (CO)

  • Never heat your house with a gas oven.
  • Install a battery-operated CO detector or replace the batteries in an existing one.
  • Don’t run your car in your garage (even if the door is open) or when your tailpipe is covered with snow.
  • Keep grills, camp stoves, and generators out of the house, basement, and garage.
  • Locate generators at least 20 feet from the house.

No matter how you choose to ride out winter weather — hunkered down inside or braving the elements — you’ll find a wealth of information to help keep you and your family safe on ready.gov.

 

Sheila Perlick

I am a copywriter at IBX as well as a spouse, parent, dog owner, and kind of meh cook. Just like a lot of people, I am always looking for ways to make my day-to-day life easier so I can spend more time with family, sneak in a little more exercise, and (hopefully) get more sleep.