During the winter months, it is important to make sure you are prepared for the elements whether you are going about your daily routine or simply enjoying winter outdoor activities.
The National Safety Council has tips on how to stay safe and healthy during the winter months.
Winter Walking Safety
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2016, there were 20,520 workplace slip-and-fall injuries involving ice, sleet or snow that required at least one day away from work to recuperate. This number doesn’t include falls from heights or through surfaces.
Walk Like a Penguin
Point arms down at an angle and feet slightly outward
Keep knees slightly bent
Take slow short steps or shuffle to increase traction
Winter Snow Removal Safety
Snow removal is a necessary part of life when you live in Wisconsin.
Snow shoveling results in about 11,500 injuries — including 100 fatalities. As winter arrives, it’s worth noting that each year about 11,500 people in the United States are treated in emergency rooms for injuries related to snow shoveling.
The Consumer Products Safety Commission estimates that 3,000 persons are treated in emergency rooms in the United States for snow-blower injuries each year. Another study estimated at least 5.3 injuries per 1,000 machines occur annually.
Please refer to our resources to keep yourself safe when you are removing snow this Winter.
Winter Recreation Safety
Recreation is important for both our physical and mental health. Don’t let winter be a barrier to your recreation. Activities like skiing, snowboarding and sledding can be a great way to stay in shape over the winter. Please check out our safety resources on Winter Recreation tips to make sure you stay safe.
Resources
Additional Winter Weather Safety
Winter holidays present many of us with opportunities to travel, host, decorate, and be with people we love. Winter holidays also pose a various amount of risks to be wary of. Driving in icy conditions, caring for pets in the cold snow, decorating houses with holiday lights, and knowing the limits of cold weather are all topics to consider.