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Winter Safety
The winter months are accompanied by many hazards associated with cold weather and holiday decorations. Still, most accidents are preventable by taking simple safety precautions.
Snow shoveling
Shoveling snow can bring on aches and pains, often in the lower back. Even worse, shoveling can bring on a heart attack, especially if you're out of shape. Keeping fit can head off some of those problems. But get a physical checkup before shoveling if you have a medical condition, don't exercise regularly or are over age 40. If you do shovel remember these tips to avoid injury:
- Bend at the knees.
- Don't take too much snow on the shovel at one time, especially wet snow.
- Take frequent breaks.
- Drink plenty of water.
Prep your vehicle for winter
Before bad weather arrives, make sure your vehicle is in top shape to ensure your own safety and the safety of your passengers. Have your vehicle thoroughly inspected, making sure to check the motor oil, radiator, tires, battery and ignition system. Prepare a winter survival kit to store in your trunk or glove compartment that includes a flashlight, blanket, first aid kit, tool kit, booster cables, warning device (flares or reflective triangle), a bag of sand or cat litter for traction, cloth or paper towels, snow brush, flat fixer, washer fluid and a small shovel. The American Red Cross sells first aid kits in a variety of sizes at www.redcross.org. Also, try to keep your fuel tank at least half full to minimize condensation.
Hitting the road
Winter weather driving requires extra concentration and caution. In the snow, slush and sleet, remember to decrease speed and increase stopping distance. “Black ice” appearing as merely a wet surface, can be extremely dangerous and catch drivers off guard. Never get on the road without proper visibility- clear the entire car, including the front and rear windshields, side windows, hood, roof, headlights and taillights. Sheets of snow left on your car can peel off while driving and obscure your vision or that of other drivers around you.
Holiday decor
Take care to prevent a fire involving decorative lights, trees and candles. Check decorative light strings carefully for loose bulbs or frayed wires before hanging them on the tree. Buy a fresh tree and water it regularly -- dried branches and needles can be a fire hazard, or use an artificial tree. Keep pets and small children away from Christmas trees and any decorations that may be a choking hazard. If a fire occurs, leave the house and call 9-1-1 immediately. Do not try to extinguish the flames yourself.
Learn how to treat minor injuries and breathing and choking emergencies with an American Red Cross first aid and CPR course. Or, give family members or friends a gift certificate to take a course themselves. Contact your local Red Cross chapter for more information.
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