Use Caution Outdoors in Winter
© Mike & Valerie Mille / PhotoXpress
Venturing outdoors this winter? Perhaps it’s for recreation such as snow skiing or building a snowman with your family after a peaceful snowfall. Yet many of us also must travel to work or take care of outdoor chores despite the nastiest winter weather. Bitter cold, strong winds, snow and ice can all discourage even the hardiest of us from leaving the comfort of our homes. However, if you must spend time in the elements, a few precautions can help make the winter a more bearable and a much safer season.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend the following tips to protect yourself against the hazards of winter weather:
- Wear appropriate outdoor clothing: layers of light, warm clothing; mittens; hats; scarves; and waterproof boots.
- Sprinkle cat litter or sand on icy patches.
- Learn safety precautions to follow when outdoors.
- Be aware of the wind chill factor.
- Work slowly when doing outside chores.
- Take a buddy and an emergency kit when you are participating in outdoor recreation.
- Avoid traveling when the weather service has issued advisories.
- If you must travel, inform a friend or relative of your proposed route and expected time of arrival.
- Carry a cell phone.
A little preparation can help keep you warm and safe during the chilly winter months.
About MAX: Don’t get left out in the cold if an accident happens at your home or on your property. Now is a great time to be sure your liability insurance is adequate. Accidents happen, so make sure you’re protected. We also offer home, farm, auto, renters, and other personal lines to help protect the members of the faith-based community. Our friendly, experienced agents can help answer all your questions about insurance. Visit www.faithbasedinsurance.com/contact-us, email wholeness@faithbasedinsurance.com or call us toll-free at (877) 736-5681.
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Be Prepared to Stay Safe and Healthy in Winter.” Retrieved Jan. 11, 2012, from http://www.cdc.gov/features/winterweather/.
