With winter finally starting to show its teeth, we want to make sure you and your family stay safe. The cold weather and the snow/ice it brings with it can cause us all to be caught off guard easily so being prepared is the best course of action.
Here are 5 safety tips we think are simple ways to help you start preparing for winter.
- Keep an emergency first aid kit in your vehicle – If you already have a kit in your vehicle, be sure to check that all needed items are in the kit, you should also have an extra blanket or food with your kit. If you do not have a vehicle first aid kit, we have them available here.
- Know the weather – One of the simplest steps to staying safe in winter is knowing the weather. You can tell if storms are approaching or if the weather is calm, enabling you to adjust your activities or driving. The Government of Canada Weather Service is a great resource for not only seeing approaching weather, but also keeping track of any alerts/watches which may be in affect.
- Low & Slow when walking on Ice – Ice and snow can be very dangerous to walk on. If you find yourself having to walk across ice, be sure to slow down, keep your knees loose and lower your center of gravity. This will give you a more stable crossing.
- Shovel your driveway slowly – If you’re not very active, be careful when you have to shovel your driveway. Start slowly and take regular breaks, every 5 or 10 minutes. Using a smaller shovel, while making the job take longer will put far less strain on your body. While shoveling, be alert to signals of heart attacks, which include pain, shortness of breath, nausea and clammy skin.
- Learn how to deal with cold weather emergencies – Taking a First Aid and CPR class will help you not only recognize emergencies but also learn how to deal with them, keeping you and those around you safe. We are a top Canadian Red Cross provider for First Aid, CPR & AED Courses.
We hope you, your family and those around you stay safe this winter. If you have any questions about our safety services, don’t hesitate to contact us.
About F.A.S.T. Rescue
F.A.S.T. Rescue are health and safety experts offering consulting, supplies and training solutions that help make employees safe in the workplace. We’re passionate about health and safety, offering unrivaled value and solutions with a satisfaction guarantee. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
