5 Tips for Safer Winter Play

When the temperature drops and the wind starts to blow, playing outside gets cold. Whether you have kids or are yourself a kid at heart, the winter season doesn’t have to mean the end of outdoor activities. You and your family can still enjoy the great outdoors—and the snow when there is some—despite the cold. However, those lower temperatures do mean you need to take more precautions during winter play to avoid foot injuries from slick surfaces or frostbite.

Cold weather and wintery conditions can be treacherous. The cold zaps heat from your extremities, putting your toes and feet at risk for frostbite, while ice and wet can increase your risk of slipping, falling, and injuring yourself. Taking precautions whenever you and your family go out can help you enjoy winter activities without harm. Here are a few tips for safer winter play:

• Dress for the weather – Wear warm, loose clothing that can be layered. The outer layers should be wind and waterproof. Don’t forget hats, gloves, and especially warm socks.
• Pay attention to signs of frostbite – If feet and toes are feeling prickly or numb, or you notice exposed skin turning red or pale, get to a place you can warm up and counteract the early stages of frostbite.
• Wear sturdy boots with thick tread – Warm, thick, winter-proof boots are important for keeping toes warm and protected in wintery weather. Choose styles that have good tread as well to help your footing on slick surfaces.
• Walk carefully in slick areas – If the ground is slippery, slow down. Don’t be afraid to spread your arms out and shuffle to maintain your balance.
• Improve your balance at home – The better your balance is, the less likely you’ll slip and fall. Work on your own and your family’s balance at home to strengthen your lower limbs and hopefully avoid falling injuries.

Taking steps to protect your own and your family’s feet this winter can potentially save you from trouble later. No one wants to have to deal with a foot or ankle injury during wet, wintery conditions. If you’d like more information about protecting your feet in winter or you need help for an injury that has already come up, contact our team at Family Foot & Ankle Care of Jasper. You can reach our southern Indiana office through our website or call us at (812) 481-7200.