Tips from Essentia Health to stay safe and healthy this winter

As winter approaches, Essentia Health wants to ensure that our communities stay safe and healthy during the colder months. With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy winter activities while protecting yourself from the cold weather and flu season.

Winter activity safety tips:

Dress warm: Layer your clothing to stay warm and dry. Wear a hat, gloves and a scarf to protect exposed skin from frostbite.

Stay active: Engage in winter sports like skiing, snowboarding or ice skating, but always wear appropriate safety gear.

Be cautious on ice: Watch for icy patches on sidewalks and driveways.

Stay hydrated: Even in cold weather, it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Sun safety: Even though the temperatures are colder, the sun can still be harmful to your skin. During outdoor winter activities, sunglasses and sunscreen are still recommended.

Cold-weather health tips:

Prevent hypothermia and frostbite: Limit time spent outdoors in extreme cold. Know the signs of hypothermia, such as shivering, confusion and drowsiness, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms occur.

Maintain indoor safety: Ensure your home is properly heated and use space heaters safely. Install carbon monoxide detectors to prevent poisoning from heating sources.

Mental health: The shorter days and longer nights can affect mental health, leading to conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Staying active, maintaining social connections and getting enough sunlight can help improve mood and overall well-being.

Keep your home humidified: Use a humidifier to maintain moisture in the air, which can help prevent dry skin and respiratory issues.

Protect yourself and others from illness:

Get vaccinated: The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are your best defense against winter illnesses. Schedule your flu or COVID shot with Essentia today.

Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and avoid close contact with sick individuals. Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces like doorknobs, light switches and mobile devices to reduce the spread of germs.

Stay home if sick: If you experience common illness symptoms, such as fever, cough and body aches, stay home to prevent spreading the virus to others.

Boost your immune system: Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, get regular exercise and ensure you get enough sleep to keep your immune system strong.

“We want everyone to enjoy the winter season while staying safe and healthy,” said Dr. Ashley Brown, a family medicine specialist at Essentia Health-Moose Lake. “By taking these precautions, you can reduce your risk of injury and illness and make the most of this wonderful time of year.”