3 ways to stay safe during winter

Taking precautions can help prevent a trip to the emergency room.

Winter means building snowmen, ice skating and enjoying the winter wonderland that’s created by a dusting of snow. But when the snow falls heavily and the temperature drops, it’s important to take a few precautions so you can avoid a trip to the ER:

Shovel carefully

Every year, thousands of Americans are treated for injuries sustained while shoveling snow. “If you have a health condition or you’re out of shape, make sure your doctor OKs you to shovel or use a snow blower—especially if you have a heart condition,” advises Nancy Pook, MD, medical director of the Emergency Department at Kettering Medical Center. “The sudden exertion of shoveling can cause your blood pressure and heart rate to increase, potentially triggering a heart attack.”

Dr. Pook says to make sure that you:

■ Push the snow instead of lifting it. Instead of flinging the snow over your shoulder or off to the side, walk the snow to where you want to dump it.

■ Pace yourself, stay hydrated and take frequent breaks.

■ Dress appropriately. Wear light, water-repellent clothing; a hat; gloves; and warm socks. Put on shoes or boots with good traction to avoid falling.

If you feel any pain or dizziness, stop shoveling right away. If you have chest pain, call 911 immediately.

Prevent falls

Whether you’re shoveling snow, walking on icy pavement or just walking through the house, falls are a common risk during winter months. “Slippery conditions, low lighting and clutter that blocks common indoor traffic areas means falls are more likely,” says Dr. Pook.

To stay on your feet:

■ Don’t go barefoot. Always wear shoes—not slippers—both inside and outside the house.

■ If there’s ice or snow on the ground, wear boots or slip-resistant shoes. Walk slowly and purposefully, keeping your hands free for balance.

■ Maintain good lighting throughout your house, especially at the top and bottom of stairs, so that you can see where you’re walking and avoid any tripping hazards.

Warm up wisely

Wood oil, gasoline, natural gas, kerosene and coal all produce carbon monoxide when burned. In your home, CO can come from your heating system, cooking appliances, gas generators or vehicles.

“When appliances are working right and fumes are properly vented, there’s nothing to worry about,” Dr. Pook says. “But at high levels, CO poisoning can cause confusion, loss of consciousness, and even death.”

■ Install a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector. Replace batteries annually.

■ Each year, have an expert check anything in your home that burns gas, oil or coal—including your chimney. It should be checked or cleaned each year.

■ Have a mechanic check your vehicle’s exhaust system once a year, and never leave your car running in the garage — even with the garage door open. Kettering Health Network is a faith-based, not-for-profit healthcare system. The network has eight hospitals: Grandview, Kettering, Sycamore, Southview, Greene Memorial, Fort Hamilton, Kettering Behavioral Health and Soin.