02/03/2018
Holiday Health and Safety Tips
The holidays are a time of joy and celebration with loved ones and a time to give thanks, share our bounty and reflect on the world around us. Winter holiday vacations offer fun, great seasonal activities for the entire family, and specific safety and health issues. Stay Safe and Healthy in Winter Weather- Dress in layers. Start with a thin layer of material to draw sweat away from your body, but remember to avoid cotton, add a layer of fleece or wool and finish off with a breathable outer layer.
- Protect your hands, feet and ears. Put on your mittens or gloves before your hands become cold and remove them if your hands begin to sweat.
- Wear sunscreen. It is just as easy to get sunburned in winter as in summer. Protect your eyes with quality sunglasses or goggles.
- Drink plenty of fluids. You need to stay hydrated no matter what the weather. Drink water or sports drinks before, during and after a workout, even if you're not really thirsty.
- Watch for frostbite and hypothermia. Early warning signs include numbness, loss of feeling or a stinging sensation. If you suspect frostbite, get out of the cold immediately and slowly warm the affected area. If numbness continues, seek emergency care. Seek immediate treatment if you experience extreme shivering, loss of coordination and slurred speech which may indicate hypothermia.
- Find your balance. You can enjoy the holidays while maintaining your healthy lifestyle. Choose fresh fruit as a festive and sweet substitute for candy. Select just one or two of your favorites from the host of tempting foods.Find fun ways to get active.
- Go skating, skiing, sledding, skiing, try building a snowman! If you're an adult, be active for at least 3½ hours a week, guide the children and teens in your life to be active for at least 1 hour a day.
- Celebrate with friends and family. Joy is boundless, spread it around.
