Published by Programme B
The first snowfall is just around the corner, and it’s important to be prepared for the cold weather ahead. Winter can bring about a multitude of issues—from typical health concerns (colds and flu) to structural dangers (leaky roofs). To make sure your winter goes smoothly, here are five tips you should follow.
From investing in durable winter car shelters to fitting warm insulation into vulnerable areas, these suggestions will help you be prepared for what’s in store. Prepare now so that when that storm comes, you won’t have to worry about any mishaps… or at least as few as possible!
1) Right Clothing
You don’t have to look like a ski instructor—just make sure you have a winter coat, a warm hat, thick mittens and some warm boots. When it’s freezing outside, and you’re trudging through slushy sidewalks or snowdrifts, you won’t regret being prepared.
Not only will these items keep you dry and warm, but they’ll also be essential in keeping your extremities from getting frostbite. Remember that proper clothing is crucial when outside for long periods of time so that you won’t have to deal with health issues later on down the road.
2) Protective Footwear
From boots to full-fledged snowshoes, there are plenty of ways you can keep your feet warm during winter. The key is to find a shoe that’s appropriate for your environment and activity level. If you plan on hiking in deep snow or climbing a mountain, specialized footwear may be necessary; otherwise, sturdy running shoes should suffice.
No matter what kind of winter wear you choose, make sure it’s waterproof—after all, no one wants cold feet when they’re enjoying themselves outside! Your boots don’t have to be new either—as long as they fit properly and are still durable, any pair will do.
3) Chargers and Batteries
Cold temperature is hard on electronics. If you plan on using your cell phone or laptop during winter, it’s important that you take precautions beforehand, so you don’t have to deal with a dead device. Make sure you have chargers, backup batteries, or power packs (which can charge multiple devices at once) in case of emergencies.
You’ll also want to make sure that if it’s cold enough for you to wear gloves outside, there are some available for your tech gadgets.
4) Medicine Kit
You never know when you’ll need medicine, so it’s important to have a basic kit on hand in case of emergencies. This will likely include medicine like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and other over-the-counter drugs that can help relieve pain and reduce fever. Even if you don’t feel sick, be sure to take any medications your doctor prescribed for prevention (e.g., malaria pills).
At a minimum, you should have some bandages and adhesive tape in case of cuts or scrapes; however, make sure to stock up on supplies before winter arrives—one broken arm can wreak havoc on your plans for weeks.
5) Moisturize Frequently
The air in winter can be harsh on your skin, so it’s important to keep it moisturized. Whether you plan on staying indoors or going out and about, make sure you have some kind of lotion with you so that your skin won’t get flaky.
Dryness is more likely when you’re colder, which means taking care of your skin will help prevent any problems (ranging from uncomfortable chapping to rashes). At a minimum, make sure you hydrate every day after bathing—dry winter air can suck the moisture right out of your pores.
While getting adequate water intake is essential year-round, it’s even more critical during winter because dehydration can set in quickly and create unpleasant consequences.
It’s not always necessary to spend a lot of money on winter gear—there are plenty of ways you can keep warm and dry without blowing your budget. With these five tips, you’ll be able to survive winter no matter what comes your way. Good luck!
Photo by Lisa from Pexels