Tips for Winter Safety
During the winter months, ice, snow, and cold temperatures can make life challenging for anyone. Preparing and taking some precaution can help avoid winter month injuries and illnesses. These tips can help prevent common cold-weather dangers:
1. Fires and Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Fireplaces, wood and gas stoves and gas appliances can leak dangerous amounts of carbon monoxide if they are not properly vented, cleaned and used. Place smoke detectors and battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors in strategic places as a precaution.
2. Accidents while driving: Accidents during the winter months are much more prominent due to icy roads and sometimes lack of visibility. It is important to have your vehicle winterized and prepared for the winter months. If driving in bad weather, always tell someone where you are going and take you cell phone with you in the case of an emergency.
3. Slips and falls: Wearing boots with non-skid soles will prevent you from slipping. If you use a cane, replace the rubber tip before it is worn smooth. Always make sure steps and walkways are clear before you walk and be especially careful if you see wet pavement that could be iced over. Clear away snow and salt your walkways at home, or hire someone to do it for you.
4. Snow shoveling: Warm up your muscles before you shovel snow and choose the right shovel to avoid back injuries. Use a short shovel for lifting snow and a long shovel for pushing snow, and remember that pushing snow is easier than lifting it.
5. Prepare for power outages: Having a power outage is common with a winter storm. Make sure you have easy access to flashlights and warm blankets. Keep a supply of non-perishable food that can be eaten cold for longer power outages. If the power does go out and your home is heated by electricity, wear several layers of clothing including a hat and move around a lot to avoid hypothermia.
For eligible Pilot patients, assistance with many of these precautions can be reimbursable. Pilot eligible patients can receive assistance with snow removal (including their roof), chimney cleaning reimbursement, firewood assistance, and other medically necessary assistance. If you have any questions or need additional information on the Pilot program please contact CARD’s Case Manager, Stephanie Shaw at 293-9274 Ext 139 and she can assist with getting enrolled into these services.
