Bundle up safely
When preparing for outdoor play, dress your children in multiple thin layers to keep them warm and dry. A good rule to follow is that children need one more layer than adults. Trade scarves for neck gaiters and cotton for wool. Neck gaiters are safer than scarves because they are less likely to catch on other objects causing strangulation. Wool will retain warmth and stay drier than cotton.
Car seats and winter coats
We want to keep our children warm while traveling during winter months but putting on a puffy coat is not safe. A bulky coat can prevent the harness from fitting snuggly. Instead, once your child is buckled in place, place their jacket or blanket over them.
Carbon monoxide
Winter is an excellent time to ensure that your home has a properly working carbon monoxide alarm on every level, particularly near sleeping areas. These must be kept at least 15 feet away from any fuel-burning appliances. Also, if you are warming up your vehicle, make sure to remove it from the garage as soon as you start it. Leaving a vehicle engine running inside a garage is extremely dangerous.
Children are at a greater risk for frostbite because heat escapes from their skin at a faster rate than adults, and they may be reluctant to leave the winter fun to go inside and warm up. Symptoms include reddened skin that becomes white, hard, and swollen and skin that burns, tingles or becomes numb. If you think your child has developed frostbite, get him or her out of the cold and seek immediate medical attention. Do not rub the skin. To help prevent frostbite, set reasonable time limits on outdoor play.
Health safety
Keeping hands clean through diligent handwashing is one of the most important steps to avoiding illness and preventing the spread of germs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggest washing hands in warm or cold water for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Encourage children to sing or hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice before rinsing.
Ice skating safety
Only allow children to skate on approved surfaces. Check for signs posted by law enforcement or park staff indicating the area is safe to use. Encourage children to stay away from neighborhood creeks, lakes, and ponds during the winter months.
Sleep safety
Never put a loose blanket or extra bedding in a baby’s crib. If you are concerned about keeping your baby warm during the winter while sleeping, use a sleep sack (wearable blanket).
Find more winter safety tips on our website.
Contact UI Health Care Media Relations with any additional questions.
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