Winter. Some people love it, some people hate it. The days get shorter, the weather gets colder, and you get a break from the hustle and bustle of college life for a few weeks. No matter if you’re a winter fan or winter hater, it’s important to be aware of all the risks the change in weather can bring, and how you and your loved ones can stay safe this winter.
It starts with the drive home. If your journey home is a long drive, make sure you’re staying safe on the roads if they’re icy or snow– according to the Federal Highway Administration, over 1,300 people are killed and more than 116,800 are injured on snowy, slushy or icy roads. If you’re trying to get home and the roads are icy, remember these tips.
First, slow down, and give yourself some space between your vehicle and the other ones on the road. It’s harder to slow down on icy roads, so driving slowly and carefully from the get go can greatly reduce the risk of accidents and collisions.
Secondly, making sure your car is working properly is very important to prevent you from getting stranded on the side of the road. Make sure your tires, windshield wipers, battery and headlights are all working properly, and if they aren’t, get them replaced. Additionally, fill up your tank before you head out, and consider getting an emergency car repair kit or jumper cables to keep in your car, just in case.
Third, check your route: make sure that if it is icy, the roads you’re traveling on have been salted and are safe to drive on. Getting stuck on an icy back road may make your winter break start off on an unpleasant note. Once you’re at your destination, there are still some tips that can keep you safe this winter.
Aside from car accidents, falls are one of the most common winter injuries, and they can affect anyone, regardless of age. Make sure you’re wearing the right shoe if you’re heading out in the snow, and if you’re going somewhere, leave early and walk carefully with your hands free. Try walking like a penguin in areas where you may slip: take short, flat-footed steps to avoid slipping. If your house has a walkway or porch steps, keep them clear from ice and snow as often as you can to prevent falls.
While winter snow can be a beautiful and fun thing, just remember to be careful if you’re out and about this season.
