When the temperature drops, older adults run a higher risk of health problems and injuries related to weather.  This includes hypothermia, frostbite, and slips and falls in ice and snow.  When we get frigid cold temperatures like those that are coming up over the next couple of days, there are a few precautions that everyone should take.

1. Avoid Slipping on Ice
   • If you use a cane, make sure the rubber tip is not worn smooth. Consider the “ice-pick” like attachment that fits onto the end of the cane for better traction.
   • Wear boots with non-skid soles.  For extra safety, buy yourself a pair of ice cleats that slip over top of any boot.
   • Make sure steps and walkways are clear of snow.  Ask a friend or family member, or hire someone to help you remove the snow.
2. Prevent Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
   • Have your chimneys and flues for your fireplace checked annually.
   • Place smoke detectors and battery operated carbon monoxide detectors in areas where you use fireplaces, wood stoves or kerosene heaters.
   • If you need to use a kerosene heater indoor, open a window.  Just a crack will do.
   • Make sure that space heaters are at least 3 feet away from anything that is flammable.
3. Prepare for Power Outages
   • Have a backup generator or a power supply to use in case of emergency
   • Make sure that you have plenty of food and water in the house, enough for a three day supply
4. Winterize Your Car
   • Make sure your antifreeze is topped up for winter
   • Install winter tires on your vehicle.  Mud and snow tires are not sufficient.
   • Check your windshield wipers and change them if needed.
   • Have a way to charge your cell phone in your car.
   • Stock your car with basic emergency supplies just in case you do get into an accident
5. Dress in Layers
   • Make sure all exposed skin is covered when you go out in the cold.
   • Wearing 2 or 3 layers of loos fitting clothing is warmer than a single layer of thick clothing.  Dig out that long underwear!
   • Essential: hats, gloves (preferably mittens), winter coat, boots and a scarf to cover  your mouth and nose
   • If your skin turns red, dark or starts to hurt, go inside right away.
6. Fight Wintertime Depression
   • Talk to your doctor about getting a vitamin D supplement for the winter time.
   • Use “daylight spectrum” lighting in your home to mimic real sunlight.
7. Don’t go out if you don’t have to