Cold Weather Risks

Every year people move hundreds of pounds shoveling snow, without even knowing how much they have lifted. In winter, with fewer opportunities to be active, our bodies are more out of condition than we realize. It is important to listen to your body to shovel snow safely and not overexert yourself. Also, to keep in mind the cold. Cold weather increases both blood pressure and heart rate.

Winter temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict (narrow) to conserve body heat. This increases peripheral vascular resistance and raises blood pressure. Simultaneously, the heart must work harder to maintain core temperature, resulting in an increased heart rate. The cold also constricts arteries which decrease blood supply. Not to mention, the toll shoveling snow takes on our muscles and backs.

Shovel Snow Safely

Be mindful: tips for shoveling snow safely include, but are not limited to:

• Warm up first (5–10 minutes).
  March in place, swing your arms, and gently stretch your back, shoulders, and hamstrings.
• Dress in layers to shovel snow safely.
  Wear insulated, breathable clothing, waterproof boots with good traction, gloves, and a hat. Remove a layer if you start to overheat.
• Use the right shovel.
  Choose a lightweight shovel with a curved handle or ergonomic grip if possible.
• Push snow instead of lifting when you can.
  Pushing is much easier on your back and heart.
• Lift small loads.
  Don’t overload the shovel. Wet, packed snow is much heavier than it looks.
• Bend your knees, not your back.
  Keep your back straight, squat down, and lift with your legs.
• Don’t twist while lifting.
  Turn your whole body by moving your feet instead of twisting at the waist.
• Pace yourself and shovel snow safely.
  Take breaks every 10–15 minutes, especially in extreme cold.
• Most importantly, listen to your body, if you don’t feel right STOP

Shoveling snow is necessary during Alaska’s winter months. It is also a potentially dangerous task. Following guidelines to shovel snow safely helps prevent injuries and make the job a little easier on your body.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Image created using ChatGPT – Prompt: A person shoveling snow in Alaska

Sources: National Library of Medicine; Access PT; National Safety Council; and KTUU – Alaska News Source

Pedestrian Visibility In Winter Weather

Pedestrians are difficult to see during darker days and increase winter weather safety by wearing bright, reflective clothing. Lighted vests, headlamps, or carrying a flashlight makes pedestrians more visible to drivers and others nearby. Increased visibility helps prevent accidents and keeps people safer along the roadway. Brightly colored clothing is more helpful in enhancing visibility when compared to dark or black clothing, even during daylight hours.

Vehicle Visibility

Before entering a roadway, be sure your headlights and other mandatory vehicle lights are working. During winter weather driving conditions with limited visibility, headlights and tail lights increase the likelihood of others seeing your vehicle. Keep your lights, windshield, windows, and mirrors clear of debris to maximize your visibility. Clean surfaces also help you see other drivers, pedestrians, and road hazards more clearly.

Consider Seasonal Factors

Weather hazards such as ice fog and heavy snow hinder visibility during winter months. It’s important to completely clear snow and ice from your vehicle before driving on a public roadway. Clearing your vehicle helps other drivers see you more clearly. It also prevents snow or ice from falling off your vehicle and creating a dangerous hazard for others on the road.

It’s important to increase your visibility, and whether others are visible to you, year-round, not just during winter weather. Summer presents the opposite concerns of winter weather. Extended daylight often decreases overall visibility during evening hours due to the sun’s position on the horizon. Additionally, there’s a potential for smoke pollution during summer months because of wildfires. Use your headlights during times of low visibility to increase the opportunity for others to see you, and for you to see others.

Reducing motor vehicle accidents, and injuries to Alaskans, is achievable through safer driving habits. If everyone on Alaska roads traveled carefully, maintained their vehicles, and continuously considered safety both for themselves and others, far less motor vehicle crashes and pedestrian injuries would occur during winter weather and all seasons.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for 30 years. It’s who we are. Call Johnson Law at  (907)277-3090 or use our Contact Form to discuss your Alaska auto accident injury case. We are here to serve you.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Image created using ChatGPT – Prompt: Vehicles and pedestrians traveling Alaska roads in winter weather

Be Safe In Alaska’s Winter Weather

Wear appropriate gear for Alaska’s winter weather. Size and fit matter, having equipment that properly fits can prevent or reduce the severity of injuries. When participating in sports such as skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and even sledding, be sure to wear proper protection and always wear a helmet.

Stay hydrated and encourage children to drink water throughout the day while enjoying Alaska winter fun. Children are at a greater risk of dehydration, even more-so when playing in extreme temperatures. Also be aware that on sunny days it is still important to apply sunscreen to exposed skin.

Stay Warm Outdoors

Dressing in layers is key to staying warm when going outside into the cold and snow of Alaska’s winter weather. It’s just as important when playing sports or participating in outdoor activities in the winter, as layers can be removed if needed. Wear water-resistant outer layers to stay dry.

Staying warm is essential to preventing frostbite and hypothermia. Bring kids indoors periodically to warm up as children lose body heat more quickly than adults.

Have Fun In Alaska’s Winter Weather

Get out of the house and have fun this winter with friends and family.  Take a class to learn to snowboard, ski, ice skate, or snow shoe. Try playing hockey or learn curling. Start a snowball fight, make a snow angel or snowman, or go sledding or tubing. There are many ways to stay active and enjoy being outside even during the winter months.

Children are some of the most at-risk individuals during winter. They love being outside, but with the Alaska winter fun of outdoor activities comes danger. While parents generally put their children’s needs first, that is not always the case when children are with others. For instance, a child in school should be monitored. If they are on the playground, it’s important for someone to watch to make sure they do not get hurt.

Keep Children Warm

In Alaska’s winter weather, it is even more important to watch children, since temperatures can drop dramatically resulting in hypothermia or frostbite. It is always a good idea to keep your children in warm areas or near warm areas when they’re playing.

Another risk to children in Alaska’s winter weather is use of snowplows. Remind your child to stay away from the streets on days when they are home from school. If they run into the street or are playing in snow piles, it’s possible they could be hit by a snowplow.

If they are meant to be inside for a play date and you find out your child is sick or suffering from hypothermia because the other person didn’t let him or her inside, this could be constituted as negligence. The same is true if a school has no heat and decides to continue with class despite risks to the children. Remember, if someone who is supposed to keep your child safe in Alaska’s winter weather and doesn’t, you could have a case against that individual for negligence. Your attorney can help you decide if you should pursue the case.

Johnson Law has been helping Alaskans for nearly 30 years. It’s who we are.

And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do. ~ Doug Johnson

Please call Johnson Law to discuss your case: (907)277-3090 or use our online contact form.

Sources: Safe Kids Worldwide; Visit Anchorage, Alaska

Image Source: Visit Anchorage, Alaska