The weather forecasters have already been throwing the “s” word around this past week – “s” as in snow.
Winter-like weather is upon us and with it comes increased illness and accidents.
This column, like the Thursday columns that have preceded it for several weeks, is about a single simple suggestion for a habit that will help you stay healthier and live better.
Many people in the South seriously don’t like winter. You may be one of them.
Some of these cold-dreary-damp-weather-despisers go so far as to appear to deny that it is winter.
By that I mean they do not dress warmly enough, don’t prepare to deal with ice and snow, or fail to adequately adjust themselves to the fact that the weather will be colder for the next few months, like it or not.
So, here is the suggestion for the winter-time habit in detail: Accept the fact that winter weather is upon us and take heed daily to protect yourself from the risks and challenges that come with it.
If you are still trying to get by with a short jacket and feel cold, buy a longer coat. It is amazing how much cozier you will feel if the coat covers your rear. That extra length helps create a warm layer of air between you and the elements.
If you do not have some shoes with good tread that are safe on snow and ice, now is a great time to find some. Wearing smooth soles during the winter is a sign of someone in denial of the risk of falling on slippery surfaces such as ice or snow. You may think that your entire walking path will be kept clean and dry, but sometimes ice can be hard to see.
Check your car for things like good wiper blades, freeze-proof windshield washer fluid, brake and tire condition, and emergency supplies. Although most readers carry cell phones and are never far from help, it is still possible to become stranded. A warm blanket, some food and water, and even first aid items can make a big difference in an accident or breakdown. Even if nothing ever happens to you, you may be able to assist someone else that has been involved in a mishap.
Check out the entrances to your home for possible areas that can become hazardous. Steps and other treacherous areas should be treated with salt of other ice-melting products early during a storm. Stock up on these and other winter supplies to have them ready.
Anticipate the need for emergency heat if your power goes out, and have some food and water on hand for possible outages. As we have seen in past years and recently in other areas of the country, winter storms can knock out power for days or weeks.
Stock up on your favorite warm food such as soups, cocoa, teas, etc. Make it a point to eat hot cereal in the morning if you don’t have a cooked breakfast. Eating a warm meal naturally increases your feeling of warmth and helps your immune system.
Stay active as long as it is safe to do so during the winter. Activity increases agility, immune system, mood and metabolism.
Even though winter is not a long affair in our area, it comes with certain increase in risks and health challenges. Taking time to prepare can help you safely get through this winter and those to come.
Stay healthy and stay happy. |
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