Summary: Seasonal hazards like icy sidewalks, heavy lifting, and decorating falls lead to countless preventable injuries each winter. The best way to avoid these setbacks? Play it safe with proper technique, smart footwear, and a little preparation.
The holidays are a time for joy, family gatherings, and making memories, not unexpected trips to the emergency room. Every year, however, thousands of people find themselves dealing with sprains, strains, and falls from simple seasonal activities like decorating, shoveling, or walking on icy sidewalks. The good news? A little preparation and awareness go a long way toward keeping your celebrations merry and injury-free.
Here are some smart winter safety tips to help you avoid seasonal setbacks and keep the holidays as cheerful as they’re meant to be.
Decorating With Care
Stringing up lights and hanging ornaments are holiday traditions, but they can be risky if done carelessly. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) tells us that almost half of all falls during the season are attributed to decorating mishaps. Fortunately, they’re easily preventable:
- Use a sturdy ladder: Don’t balance on chairs, boxes, or other makeshift solutions, no matter how tempting that can be. A strong, reliable ladder is worth pulling out and setting up!
- Recruit a helper: Always have a buddy nearby to steady the ladder or hand you decorations. Not only is it safer, but it also makes the task more fun.
- Work in good lighting: Especially if you’re decorating outdoors, make sure you have plenty of daylight or safe lighting so you can clearly see where you’re stepping. This works indoors, too!
Being mindful of these tips reduces the chances of an injury that could sideline your holiday cheer.
Lift Smart, Not Hard
From hauling holiday bins out of storage to moving that new tree into the living room, lifting is the legwork of the season. Unfortunately, it’s back injuries that are common during the holidays, especially when people forget proper lifting techniques.
- Lift with your legs, not your back: Bend your knees, keep the object close to your body, and use your leg muscles to power the lift.
- Know your limits: If a box feels too heavy, don’t risk it. Ask for help or break the load into smaller pieces.
- Avoid twisting while carrying: Keep your spine aligned and turn with your feet instead.
Proper lifting is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent painful strains that can linger well into the new year.
Stay Upright on Icy Surfaces
Winter weather creates beautiful landscapes, but it also creates frustrating hazards. Ice and snow are major culprits when it comes to slips and falls. Practicing winter safety when you’re out and about is essential.
- Wear shoes with good traction: Footwear designed for winter conditions can help you stay stable on slippery sidewalks.
- Walk like a penguin: Take short, deliberate steps and keep your arms slightly out for balance.
- Be mindful of black ice: It may look like a wet surface, but it’s actually ice and can be dangerously slick.
These precautions may seem like small matters, but they can save you from serious injuries like sprains, fractures, or head trauma.
Related: How to Stop Seasonal Slips, Trips, and Falls
Shovel Safely and Take Breaks
Snow shoveling may look like a simple chore, but it’s a demanding physical activity that can put stress on your muscles, joints, and even your heart.
- Warm up before shoveling: Just like you would before exercise, stretch for a few minutes to prepare your body for the effort.
- Pace yourself: Take frequent breaks, especially if the snow is heavy or wet.
- Push rather than lift: If possible, push the snow instead of lifting it to reduce strain on your back.
- Stay hydrated: Cold weather doesn’t eliminate the need for fluids. Keep water nearby.
These cold weather safety tips help keep you strong and reduce the risk of exhaustion or injury.
Related: Don’t Let Cold Weather Injuries Freeze You in Your Tracks
Don’t Forget Indoor Hazards
While icy sidewalks and snow shoveling grab attention, some holiday hazards lurk indoors, too. Extension cords running across floors, candles placed near decorations, or cluttered walkways and attics can all lead to accidents. Stay mindful of your surroundings as your home fills up with holiday decor and groups of guests.
Keep the Season Bright with Excelsia
The holidays are meant to be filled with joy, not recovery time from preventable injuries. Practicing these safety tips—from safe decorating and smart lifting to careful walking and snow shoveling—will help you and your loved ones enjoy the season without setbacks.
But if an accident happens, rely on the experts at Excelsia Injury Care to help you recover quickly and get back on your feet and into the spirit. With the right care, you’ll be celebrating again in no time. The holidays only come once a year, so keep them happy by keeping them healthy!