Walking in a Winter Wonderland
Safety and health tips from UMR for maintaining your daily walks throughout the winter months.
1. Walk in daylight, when possible: if you can arrange your schedule to walk in the daylight, that’s safer and more effective than a nighttime stroll. Sometimes that’s hard to do within your working hours, so if you do plan to walk at night, make sure to map out a route that is well-lit and carry a flashlight with you.
2. Wear bright colors: Roads can be particularly hazardous in winter weather conditions, so adding a layer of bright safety clothing can ensure you are easily seen by drivers no matter the weather or visibility.
3. Dress in layers: Layering your clothes helps to insulate your body while allowing heat to circulate throughout it. Wear an article of clothing that can absorb moisture next to your skin (cotton, specialized moisture-wicking fabric, etc.), then layer on, depending on the temperature outside. If you’re taking a long walk and begin to feel warm, shed the layers so you don’t overheat.
4. Cover as much of your body as you can: Gloves and a hat that covers your ears are essential to avoiding frostbite in the winter. A cozy, thick scarf can also do wonders for keeping the freezing wind or elements off your neck and face. If you have respiratory sensitivities, cold air may agitate your lungs. Wrap a scarf around your nose and mouth to help warm the air you breathe in to mitigate any agitation.
5. Wear the right footwear: Make sure your footwear is warm and wear the right kind of shoes or boots if it’s slushy, snowy, or icy. Non-slip rubber soles are a good option for messy weather walking, and you might want to have a pair of tall boots with proper soles for when there are inches of snow. In the colder months, it’s always a great idea to pack extra socks just in case.
Share on Facebook
Share on Twitter
Share via Email
