Schulze Law

Tag: winter

  • Tips To Avoid Colds and Flu

    Tips To Avoid Colds and Flu

    It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Minus two words…the dreaded “cold” and the even more dreaded “flu”. ‘Tis the season for sickness! With the winter wonderland and all the holiday delights come some unwanted visitors in the form sicknesses. Illnesses run ramped this time of year and we’re about to kick off some of the sickliest months of the year. Not to be a Debbie Downer during the holiday season but unfortunately, it’s tough to stay healthy out there.  As the temperature drops, and the flu and cold season rages on, more individuals will be falling ill. Luckily, there are ways to fight back against cold and flu viruses so that you’ll be in good shape during the holiday season.

    The holiday season — the period that begins with Thanksgiving and ends with New Year’s Day — is a super busy and sometimes stressful time. With holiday parties, shopping, and family get-togethers, the last thing we want is to get sick. Unfortunately, the holidays are a prime time to feel crappy. Cold and flu viruses are always around, at least according to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Catching a cold or the flu during the holidays is not only a pain but also very common. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Common colds are the main reason that children miss school and adults miss work” each year.

    Why is winter/holiday season so popular for sickness? Even though there’s no definitive answer as to why colds and the flu are so common during winter months, there is a main reason people are more susceptible. That’s because more time is spent indoors, and in large groups, which makes it easier for viruses to spread from person-to-person.

    It sounds alarming but, while most colds tend to go away by themselves, every year, the flu kills an estimated 250,000 to 500,000 people worldwide.

    Common Cold vs. Flu

    First, let’s distinguish between the common cold and the flu, because the viruses that cause these do not necessarily behave the same way. According to Medial News Today, most of the time, the common cold manifests with a trilogy of symptoms: sore throat, blocked nose, and cough. There are more than 200 viruses that can cause the common cold, but rhinoviruses are by the far the most common culprits. Interestingly, around a quarter of people infected with a common cold virus are lucky enough not to experience any symptoms at all.

    On the other hand, The flu is caused by the influenza virus, of which there are three types: influenza A, influenza B, and influenza C. Common colds and flu share many symptoms, but an infection with influenza often also manifests with a high temperature, aching, and cold sweats or shivers — a good way to tell the two apart. The CDC monitors flu activity closely. Influenza can occur at any time of year, but most cases follow a relatively predictable seasonal pattern.

    The first signs of influenza activity usually start around October, according to the CDC, and often peak at the height of winter. But some years, flu outbreaks can stick around and last until May. The peak month for flu activity in the seasons spanning 1982–1983 to 2015–2016 was February, followed by December, March, and January. Today, between 9.2 million and 35.6 million cases of flu arise each year in the United States, according to the CDC. Flu is responsible for around 140,000–710,000 hospitalizations and 12,000–56,000 deaths annually.

    The bad news is that your chances of catching a cold this winter are very high. In fact, the CDC estimates that adults have two to three colds each year.

    When To See A Doc

    According to the CDC, you should call your doctor if you or your child has one or more of these conditions:

    • symptoms that last more than 10 days
    • symptoms that are severe or unusual
    • if your child is younger than 3 months of age and has a fever or is lethargic

    You should also call your doctor right away if you are at high risk for serious flu complications and get flu symptoms such as fever, chills, and muscle or body aches. People at high risk for flu complications include young children (younger than 5 years old), adults 65 years and older, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease. Your doctor can determine if you or your child has a cold or the flu and can recommend treatment to help with symptoms.

    Although the stats are grim, with the help of Healthline.com and Health.com, we have put together some top tips that might protect you from getting sick this flu season.

    1. Eat your fruits and vegetables

    Green, leafy vegetables are rich in vitamins that help you maintain a balanced diet — and support a healthy immune system. Eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables can help support your health!

    1. Get Vitamin D

    Reports indicate that many Americans fall short of their daily vitamin D requirements. Deficiencies in vitamin D may lead to symptoms such as poor bone growth, cardiovascular problems, and a weak immune system.

    Foods that are good sources of vitamin D include egg yolks, mushrooms, salmon, canned tuna, and beef liver. You can also buy vitamin D supplements at your local grocery store or pharmacy. Choose supplements that contain D3 (cholecalciferol), since it’s better at raising your blood levels of vitamin D.

    1. Get Exercise

    Staying active by following a regular exercise routine — such as walking three times a week — does more than keep you fit and trim. According to a study published in the journal Neurologic Clinicians, regular exercise also:

    • keeps inflammation and chronic disease at bay
    • reduces stress and the release of stress-related hormones
    • accelerates the circulation of disease-fighting white blood cells (WBCs), which helps the body fight the common cold
    1. Get Enough Sleep

    Getting enough sleep is extremely important if you’ve been exposed to a virus, according to a study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Healthy adult participants who slept a minimum of eight hours each night over a two-week period showed a greater resistance to the virus. Those who slept seven hours or less each night were about three percent more likely to develop the virus after exposure.

    1. Skip the Alcohol

    New research shows that drinking alcohol can damage the body’s dendritic cells, a vital component of the immune system. An increase in alcohol consumption over time can increase a person’s exposure to bacterial and viral infections.

    1. Ditch the Stress

    For years, doctors suspected there was a connection between chronic mental stress and physical illness. Finding an effective way to regulate personal stress may go a long way toward better overall health.

    1. Drink green tea

    For centuries, green tea has been associated with good health. Green tea’s health benefits may be due to its high level of antioxidants, called flavonoids. According to a study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, several fresh-brewed cups a day can lead to potential health benefits.

    1. Consider Getting a Flu Vaccine

    We’re not going to dive into this one too deep. Vaccinations are a person choice, but there is some research that suggests a flu shot can help.

    1. Practice Good Hygiene

    Limiting your exposure to illness by avoiding germs is key to remaining healthy. Here are some other ways to practice good hygiene:

    • Shower daily.
    • Wash your hands before eating or preparing food.
    • Wash your hands before inserting contact lenses or performing any other activity that brings you in contact with the eyes or mouth.
    • Wash your hands for 20 seconds and scrub under your fingernails.
    • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
    • Carry an alcohol-based sanitizer for on-the-go use. Disinfect shared surfaces, such as keyboards, telephones, doorknobs, and remote controls.
    1. Keep It Personal

    Flu viruses can generally survive on surfaces for 24 hours, according to the National Health Service. That leaves plenty of time for germs to spread among family members. Just one sick child can pass an illness to an entire family in the right setting.

    To avoid sharing germs, keep personal items separate. Personal items include:

    • toothbrushes
    • towels
    • utensils
    • drinking glasses

    Wash contaminated items — especially toys that are shared — in hot, soapy water. When in doubt, opt for disposable drinking cups, utensils, and towels.

    1. Wash Your Hands

    Each time you shake someone’s hand, wash yours. But don’t stop there—you want to lather up your hands as much as possible. Running lots of water over your hands will dilute any germs and send them down the drain, and soap will help slough off the germs quicker.

    1. Don’t Touch Your Face

    Your nose and your eyes are the most common places for germs to get into your body, so it’s best to avoid touching your face at all

    1. Keep Your Distance From Sick People

    If you do have to interact with people who are sick, make sure to be vigilant about washing your hands and not touching your face.

    1. Quit Smoking

    Smoking increases the risk of infections by making structural changes in the respiratory tract and decreasing immune response, according to a study of smokers and infection published in the Archives of Internal Medicine in 2004.

    1. Don’t Share Food or Drinks

    Double-dippers may be passing germs to those who eat after them so ditch the communal snacks when cold and flu season is in full swing. Don’t share drinks with anyone else—it’s just not worth it.

    The truth is that most secrets to good health aren’t secrets at all, but common sense. That said, it’s a perfect time of year to brush up on health tips. Viruses are present all year, but there are ways to prepare for cold and flu season and to reduce the chances of becoming sick during this festive time of year. While there’s no way to guarantee complete immunity, these practical tips could be your saving grace until spring! Be well😊

     

    https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/

    https://www.cdc.gov/

    https://www.thehealthy.com/

    https://www.healthline.com/

    https://www.health.com/

    https://www.sciencedirect.com/

     

  • Black Ice Safety Tips

    Black Ice Safety Tips

    “Winter is coming!” Actually, it’s already here and Jack Frost has been nipping at our nose for quite some time now. The reality is as cold as those chilly sub zero temps. The season is beautiful, fun and spectacular for many reasons. Unfortunately, winter can also be a dangerous time of year and bring multiple hazards to New England and beyond. Snow, ice (including black ice!!!) and frozen temps can be harmful.

    It is super important to be prepared for winter weather before it strikes. The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as the “Deceptive Killers” because most deaths are indirectly related to the actual storm itself. Instead, people die in traffic accidents on icy roads and of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold.

    For example, winter cold kills more than twice as many Americans as does summer heat, according to a report by the National Center for Health Statistics. According to SafeWinterRoads.org, over 1,300 people are killed and more than 116,800 people are injured in vehicle crashes on snowy, slushy or icy pavement annually. The ice and snow creates dangerous conditions as The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about 1 million Americans are injured and 17,000 people die, as a result of slip and fall injuries every year. From 1999 to 2011, a total of 16,911 deaths in the United States, an average of 1,301 per year, were associated with exposure to excessive natural cold. In 2015 almost 56,714 individuals were injured while participating in the winter sports of snowmobiling, snowboarding and ice skating and required treatment in emergency rooms, according to the National Safety Council.

    Road ice is very slippery stuff, especially the kind you can’t see: Black Ice. The name is a little misleading as black ice is actually completely clear. Since the coating of ice allows you to see the road, it can be really hard to know when it’s present before it’s too late. Black ice one of the conditions to be on high alert for this time of year.

    We’re looking at some tips to keep you safe when the temperature drop and the ice pops up.

    What is Black Ice?

    What is black ice? It’s a very thin coating of ice that glazes on a surface and makes it very slick. While it’s not really black, it’s nearly transparent, which allows blacktops of roadways to show through, which is why it’s called “black ice.” Black ice forms on roadways when rain falls on roads that are below freezing in temperature. The refreezing of water or snow, as well as sleet, can also result in black ice. It forms when the temperature hovers around 32 degrees Fahrenheit and we get rain, freezing rain, or sleet. When the precipitation hits the roadway that’s colder than 32 degrees, it causes ice to form, creating hazardous driving conditions.

    It can form several ways, including:

    • Snow melting during the day, making the roads the wet, then refreezing at night as clear ice.
    • Rainfall wetting the road and forming puddles before the temperature drops and freezes solid.
    • When moisture in the air condenses and forms fog or dew that then freezes on the road

    Ways to Spot Black Ice

    Unfortunately, black ice is wicked hard to see, especially when there is no sunlight illuminating the surface of the road which can sometimes create a glare. At night, it is nearly impossible to see. Luckily, there are some other warning signs you can look for. But wait, how do you spot something that’s so hard to see? At night, look for patches of pavement that are slightly darker and duller than the rest of the road. During the daytime, look for glossy, wet-looking surfaces in or around shaded parts of the road. Another trick would be to know where it forms and areas prone to these conditions.

    Some examples include:

    • bridges
    • overpasses
    • bottoms of hills where water runoff can pool up
    • less traveled and suburban roads
    • shaded areas
    • floors of mountain valleys
    • along tree lined streets
    • when temperature dips, especially from sunset to sunrise
    • any temp in the 40s and below

    Tips on Foot

    According to safetylineloneworker.com:

    1. Wear proper footwear

    Wear shoes with good grip and traction. If your shoes have poor traction, you can improve their grip by scuffing up the soles before heading out into freezing conditions.

    1. Do the shuffle

    Walk like a penguin! Shuffle your feet to avoid slipping, and use handrails whenever possible. Try to maintain as much contact with the ground as you can.

    1. Maintain your walkways

    Shovel your driveway to reduce snow melt, and use sand to create traction on walkways and driveways. Use salt to keep high traffic walkways de-iced.

    Tips If You Hit Black Ice

    AAA offers the following tips on how to stay safe for drivers who encounter black ice while driving:

    • Drivers should always be aware of and on the lookout for black ice. Pavement with black ice will be slightly darker and duller than the rest of the road surface; ice commonly forms on highly shaded areas, infrequently traveled roads, bridges and overpasses.
    • Use extreme caution on bridges and overpasses, which typically freeze first and melt last. Even if the roadway leading up to a bridge appears to be fine, use caution as the bridge itself could be covered in a sheet of ice.
    • Never use cruise control during winter driving, especially when there is a strong chance of ice and slippery conditions.
    • Avoid unnecessarily changing lanes while driving, which increases your chances of hitting a patch of ice between lanes that could cause you to lose control of the vehicle. Expect to take more time during winter driving.
    • Drive, turn and brake slowly, adjusting speed to road conditions and leaving ample stopping room (three times more than usual) and watching for brakelights, fishtailing or sideways cars that could indicate freezing roads, and emergency flashers.
    • Vehicle tires struggle to maintain traction on ice. When driving in slippery conditions, avoid braking on ice. If you approach a patch of ice, try to brake in advance and control the skid by easing off the accelerator and steering in the direction you want the front of the car to go.
    • If you have antilock brakes, do not pump the pedal; the vibrations and pulsating against your foot when you press down are the system working when your vehicle loses traction. For drivers without antilock brakes, use “threshold braking,” keeping your heel on the floor and using the ball of your foot to apply firm, steady pressure on the pedal to the “threshold” of locking your brakes; removing your heel from the floor could cause your brakes to lock.
    • Use your low-beam headlights in ice driving conditions and during freezing rain.
    • Remember, four-wheel drive doesn’t help you stop any faster. Your four-wheel-drive vehicle will still lose traction when driving in icy conditions.
    • Keep a winter weather kit in your car, containing an ice scraper, blanket, flashlight with extra batteries, bag of kitty litter, shovel and charged cell phone, as well as reflective triangles or flares, cloth or paper towels and jumper cables.
    • Invest in the right tires. Winter tires are your best bet when driving during freezing weather.

    More Tips

    • Stay calm cool and collected so you can think straight.
    • Slow down and reduce speed!
    • Stay off snowy, icy roads all together!
    • Wear your seatbelt!
    • Pay close attention to the weather.
    • Don’t be overconfident or cocky driving on icy roads.
    • Watch for tire spray.
    • Remember you aren’t invincible.

    It’s clear that winter storms and cold temperatures can be hazardous. Stay safe and healthy by planning ahead. Although the harsh winter comes as no surprise, many of us are not ready for its arrival. If you are prepared for the potential dangers of winter, you will be more likely to stay safe when the temp drops and snow falls. When well prepared for winter, you’re free to enjoy normal thrills that accompany the season.

    If you’ve been injured in an accident, call Schulze Law.

    https://lifehacker.com/

    https://weather.com/

    https://safetylineloneworker.com/

    https://northeast.aaa.com/

    http://icyroadsafety.com/tips.shtml

  • How To Prepare for Winter in Boston

    How To Prepare for Winter in Boston

    Winter is in full blast! With frigid temps and snow already covering the ground, we have gotten our first taste of the long winter months ahead. Although the weather outside may be frightful, don’t let the chill get you down. The ever changing seasons in New England each bring their own unique qualities filled with fun and delight. As you enjoy the wintery weather, don’t forget that this time of year also brings its challenges. When you stay ahead of the game and are prepared, you will minimize potential dangers whilst keeping the magic and fun of winter alive. There’s nothing quite like the beauty of a white blanket of shimmering snow. Winter in the Northeast is one of the most breathtaking seasons of the year, and it is also one of the best times to be outdoors. The silver lining to the shorter, colder days of winter is the snow and the sports activities that are typically reserved for this time of year. Winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, sledding and ice-skating provide fun, excitement, fresh air and fantastic exercise. The indoor entertainment brings its own enjoyment filled with cozy blankets, cuddles in front of fireplaces, hot cocoa, and spending time with the ones we love. Even though winter is the coldest season there is lots of warmth to go along with it. Just make sure you keep your home, health, and sanity intact by taking winter preventative measures now.

    The reality is as cold as the sub zero temps. Winter can be a dangerous season and brings multiple hazards to New England. The National Weather Service refers to winter storms as the “Deceptive Killers” because most deaths are indirectly related to the storm. Instead, people die in traffic accidents on icy roads and of hypothermia from prolonged exposure to cold. It is important to be prepared for winter weather before it strikes. For example, winter cold kills more than twice as many Americans as does summer heat, according to a report by the National Center for Health Statistics. According to SafeWinterRoads.org, over 1,300 people are killed and more than 116,800 people are injured in vehicle crashes on snowy, slushy or icy pavement annually. The ice and snow creates dangerous conditions as The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about 1 million Americans are injured and 17,000 people die, as a result of slip and fall injuries every year. From 1999 to 2011, a total of 16,911 deaths in the United States, an average of 1,301 per year, were associated with exposure to excessive natural cold. In 2015 almost 56,714 individuals were injured while participating in the winter sports of snowmobiling, snowboarding and ice skating and required treatment in emergency rooms, according to the National Safety Council.

    It’s clear that winter storms and cold temperatures can be hazardous. Stay safe and healthy by planning ahead.  Although the harsh winter comes as no surprise, many of us are not ready for its arrival. If you are prepared for the potential dangers of winter, you will be more likely to stay safe when the temp drops and snow falls. When well prepared for winter, you’re free to enjoy normal thrills that accompany the season.

    Let’s check out some of the top safety tips to get prepared for winter season! There are lots of variables to think about and consider when winter safety is involved. Here’s a comprehensive list we put together with help from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Weather Underground.

    Winter Storms Home Preparedness Checklist

    • Before winter approaches, add the following supplies to your emergency kit:
      • Rock salt or more environmentally safe products to melt ice on walkways
      • Sand to improve traction
      • Snow shovels and other snow removal equipment
      • Heating fuel, like dry, seasoned wood for your fireplace or wood-burning stove
      • Clothing and blankets to keep you warm
    • Make a family emergency communications plan. Your family may not be together when disaster strikes, so it is important to know how you will contact one another, how you will get back together and what you will do in case of an emergency
    • Listen to a radio or local news channels for critical information from the National Weather Service (NWS) and be alert to changing weather conditions
    • Minimize travel, but keep a disaster supplies kit in your vehicle
    • Bring pets/companion animals inside during winter weather
    • Move other animals or livestock to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water

    During the Winter Storm

    • Stay indoors during the storm
    • Walk carefully on snowy, icy walkways
    • Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow; overexertion can bring on a heart attack — a major cause of death in the winter
    • Stretch before going outside to shovel
    • Keep dry and change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat (wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly)
    • Watch for signs of frostbite: loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes and the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately
    • Watch for signs of hypothermia: uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion. If symptoms of hypothermia are noticed, get the victim to a warm location, remove wet clothing, warm the center of the body first and give warm, non-alcoholic beverages if the victim is conscious. Get medical help as soon as possible
    • Drive only if it is absolutely necessary. If you must drive: travel in the day, don’t travel alone, keep others informed of your schedule, stay on main roads and avoid back road shortcuts
    • Let someone know your destination, your route and when you expect to arrive. If your car gets stuck along the way, help can be sent along your predetermined route
    • If the pipes freeze, remove any insulation or layers of newspapers and wrap pipes in rags. Completely open all faucets and pour hot water over the pipes, starting where they were most exposed to the cold (or where the cold was most likely to penetrate)
    • Maintain ventilation when using kerosene heaters to avoid build-up of toxic fumes
    • Conserve fuel, if necessary, by keeping your residence cooler than normal. Temporarily close off heat to some rooms
    • If you will be going away during cold weather, leave the heat on in your home, set to a temperature no lower than 55°F

    Winterize Your Home

    • Winterize your home to extend the life of your fuel supply by insulating walls and attics, caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic
    • Winterize your house, barn, shed or any other structure that may provide shelter for your family, neighbors, livestock or equipment
    • Clear rain gutters; repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on a house or other structure during a storm
    • Maintain heating equipment and chimneys by having them cleaned and inspected every year
    • Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and allow faucets to drip a little during cold weather to avoid freezing; Running water, even at a trickle, helps prevent pipes from freezing
    • All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside and kept clear
    • Keep fire extinguishers on hand and make sure everyone in your house knows how to use them
    • Learn how to shut off water valves (in case a pipe bursts)
    • Insulate your home by installing storm windows or covering windows with plastic from the inside to keep cold air out
    • Hire a contractor to check the structural ability of the roof to sustain unusually heavy weight from the accumulation of snow or water, if drains on flat roofs do not work

    Carbon Monoxide Safety

    • Never use a generator, grill, camp stove or other gasoline, propane, natural gas or charcoal-burning devices inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or any partially enclosed area. Locate unit away from doors, windows and vents that could allow carbon monoxide to come indoors
    • The primary hazards to avoid when using alternate sources for electricity, heating or cooking are carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire
    • Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas to provide early warning of accumulating carbon monoxide
    • If the carbon monoxide alarm sounds, move quickly to a fresh air location outdoors or by an open window or door
    • Call for help from the fresh air location and remain there until emergency personnel arrive to assist you

    Winter Driving Preparedness

    Car Maintenance

    Make sure to prepare your vehicle before the winter season begins. The following steps will help you ensure that your vehicle is safe to drive during winter weather:

    1. Check your brakes, transmission and tires
    2. Check that your battery and ignition system is in top condition and that battery terminals are clean
    3. Check radiator coolant and sturdiness of hoses and belts
    4. Check your anti-freeze and thermostat to avoid freezing
    5. Check your windshield wipers and deicing washer fluid
    6. Check your headlights, tail and brake lights, blinkers and emergency flasher
    7. Check your exhaust system, heater and defroster
    8. Check fuel and air filters
    9. Check your oil and power steering fluids
    10. Properly lubricate door locks that may be prone to freezing

    Driving Safety

    • Before beginning your trip, check the current road conditions and weather forecast. For statewide highway information 24 hours a day checkout your state’s Department of Transportation
    • Keep your car’s windows, mirrors and lights clear of snow and ice
    • Buckle up
    • Allow yourself plenty of time to make it to your destination
    • Be aware of sleet and freezing rain
    • Be aware of potentially icy areas
    • Brake early and slowly and avoid slamming on the brakes
    • Keep a safe distance of at least five seconds behind other vehicles and trucks that are plowing the road
    • When driving on ice and snow, do not use cruise control and avoid abrupt steering maneuvers
    • When merging into traffic, take it slow — Sudden movements can cause your vehicle to slide
    • Don’t pass a snowplow or spreader unless it is absolutely necessary — treat these as you would emergency response vehicles
    • Keep an emergency winter driving kit in your car
    • Maintain at least a half tank of gas during the winter season. This is good for emergency preparedness and it keeps the fuel line from freezing.
    • Most importantly, drive smart!

    Winter Driving Safety Kit

    Keep a basic winter survival kit in your vehicle: flashlight, batteries, blanket, snacks, water, gloves, boots, first-aid kit. Load your car with winter travel gear : tire chains, ice scraper/snowbrush, jumper cables, road flares.

    Dress Warmly and Stay Dry

    Adults and children should wear:

    • a hat
    • a scarf or knit mask to cover face and mouth
    • sleeves that are snug at the wrist
    • mittens (they are warmer than gloves)
    • water-resistant coat and boots
    • several layers of loose-fitting clothing

    Layer-up

    1. Inner Layer: Wear fabrics that will hold more body heat and don’t absorb moisture. Wool, silk, or polypropylene will hold more body heat than cotton.
    2. Insulation Layer: An insulation layer will help you retain heat by trapping air close to your body. Natural fibers, like wool or goose down, or a classic fleece work best.
    3. Outer Layer: The outermost layer helps protect you from wind, rain, and snow. It should be tightly woven, and preferably water and wind resistant, to reduce loss of body heat.

    Additional Tips:

    • Stay dry—wet clothing chills the body rapidly.
    • Excess perspiration will increase heat loss, so remove extra layers of clothing whenever you feel too warm.
    • Also, avoid getting gasoline or alcohol on your skin while de-icing and fueling your car or using a snow blower. These materials in contact with the skin greatly increase heat loss from the body.
    • Do not ignore shivering. It’s an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Persistent shivering is a signal to return indoors.

    Avoid Frostbite and Hypothermia

    Hypothermia is caused by prolonged exposures to very cold temperatures. When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it’s produced. Lengthy exposures will eventually use up your body’s stored energy, which leads to lower body temperature. Body temperature that is too low affects the brain, making the victim unable to think clearly or move well. This makes hypothermia especially dangerous, because a person may not know it’s happening and won’t be able to do anything about it.

    Frostbite is a bodily injury caused by freezing that causes a loss of feeling and color in affected areas. It most often affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, or toes. Frostbite can permanently damage the body, and severe cases can lead to amputation.

    Avoid Exertion

    Cold weather puts an extra strain on the heart. If you have heart disease or high blood pressure, follow your doctor’s advice about shoveling snow or performing other hard work in the cold. Otherwise, if you have to do heavy outdoor chores, dress warmly and work slowly. Remember, your body is already working hard just to stay warm, so don’t overdo it.

    Avoid Ice

    Walking on ice is extremely dangerous. Many cold-weather injuries result from falls on ice-covered sidewalks, steps, driveways, and porches. Keep your steps and walkways as free of ice as possible by using rock salt or another chemical de-icing compound. Sand may also be used on walkways to reduce the risk of slipping.

    Be Safe During Recreation

    • Notify friends and family where you will be before you go hiking, camping, or skiing.
    • Do not leave areas of the skin exposed to the cold.
    • Avoid perspiring or becoming overtired. Be prepared to take emergency shelter.
    • Pack dry clothing, a two-wave radio, waterproof matches and paraffin fire starters with you.
    • Do not use alcohol and other mood altering substances, and avoid caffeinated beverages.
    • Avoid walking on ice or getting wet.
    • Carefully watch for signs of cold-weather health problems.

    What to Do if You Get Stranded

    Staying in your vehicle when stranded is often the safest choice if winter storms create poor visibility or if roadways are ice covered. These steps will increase your safety when stranded:

    • Move anything you need from the trunk into the passenger area.
    • Wrap your entire body, including your head, in extra clothing, blankets, or newspapers.
    • Stay awake. You will be less vulnerable to cold-related health problems.
    • Run the motor (and heater) for about 10 minutes per hour, opening one window slightly to let in air. Make sure that snow is not blocking the exhaust pipe—this will reduce the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.
    • As you sit, keep moving your arms and legs to improve your circulation and stay warmer.
    • Do not eat unmelted snow because it will lower your body temperature.
    • Huddle with other people for warmth.

    Long-time New Englanders joke, “if you don’t like the weather, just wait 5 minutes.” Over the next few months, we may be exposed  to severe and dangerous weather. It’s extremely important to remember if we’re not prepared for it, winter can threaten our property, our safety or our life. If you’ve been hurt or injured in wintery weather, contact Schulze Law to day so you can understand your options.

    Don’t forget to enjoy the sparkle of the winter season safely!!!

    CALL NOW: 857-300-5300 Emergency After Hours Number: 800-894-9267 XLAW1 (5291)

    http://www.weather.gov/

    https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/index.htm

    http://www.nsc.org/pages/home.aspx

    https://www.wunderground.com/

  • Winter Pet Safety Tips!

    Winter Pet Safety Tips!

    Brrr…the winter and holiday season has arrived. The first snow has fallen along with plunging temps as we all gear up for another New England winter. Many of us are bracing for another winter of ice, snow and frigid temperatures. The days are shorter, holiday lights and decorations are up, and we’re brewing ourselves cups of hot tea to fight off the winter chill. Despite the cold, it’s still a truly magical and special time to spend with loved ones. Holiday parties and festivities, outdoor winter sports, cuddling under warm blankets and drinking hot chocolate in front of a fireplace are just a few of the cold weather delights. That said, the winter season brings its own set of unique safety concerns  as well. We know how to protect ourselves and people we care about but we can’t forget our furry friends this time of year either. For pet owners, winter presents a new set of challenges, especially for those living in areas with extreme seasonal changes in weather.

    Our pets are like family and every animal enthusiast understands the special bond, deep connection and unconditional love that exists between a pet and their owner. To the animal lovers of the world, it is a relationship we can’t imagine life without. They’re truly man’s best friend and we must protect and take care of them during this harsh time of year.

    Pets manage to bring so much happiness and joy into our lives. They make us smile and laugh, comfort us when we’re sad or sick, and are always there for us no matter what. We need to always be there for them in return by providing them the safety and protection they deserve. One of the signs of a responsible and skilled pet ownership is the ability and knowledge in providing safety measures and planning and preparing for unexpected emergencies.

    While unforeseen illnesses and injuries can happen at any time during the year, some are more prevalent seasonally. During a cold weather related injury, your pets will be even more dependent on you for their safety and well-being. When the weather outside is frightful, these winter pet tips show you how to keep your precious pets snug, safe, and warm. Keep reading to learn about a few potential pet problems to be mindful of this winter to protect from extreme cold and other dangers. Following these winter-proofing tips from the help of the ASPCA will help keep your pets healthy, happy and safe during the cold winter months.

    1. Paw Protection! Don’t let snow and ice be a pain in the paw! Bring a towel on long walks to clean off stinging, irritated paws. After each walk, wash and dry your pet’s feet and stomach to remove ice, salt and chemicals—and check for cracks in paw pads or redness between the toes. Massaging petroleum jelly or other paw protectants into paw pads before going outside can help protect from salt and chemical agents. Booties provide even more coverage and can also prevent sand and salt from getting lodged between bare toes and causing irritation.
    2. Winter Hair Styles. Your pet needs a clean, well-groomed coat to keep them properly insulated. This is especially important if they spend a lot of time outdoors. Never shave your dog or pet down to the skin in winter, as a longer coat will provide more warmth. If your dog is long-haired, trim them to minimize the clinging ice balls, salt crystals and de-icing chemicals that can dry their skin, and don’t neglect the hair between the toes. If your dog is short-haired, consider getting them a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly. For many dogs, this is regulation winter wear.
    3. Winter Diet and Hydration. Although pups and pets may need an extra layer in winter, make sure it comes from a coat and not a layer of fat. Unless your dog lives outdoors during the winter, they usually won’t need any additional calories during the winter chill. Cold temperatures may even bring on lazy behavior and the need for fewer calories. Be attentive to your dog’s activity level and adjust their calories accordingly. Make sure they have plenty of water to drink to help keep them well-hydrated and their skin less dry. Which brings us to…
    4. Winter Skin Care. Dogs and pets get dry, flaky skin in the winter just like humans do. Use a humidifier and provide plenty of drinking water in your home — your pet’s skin will thank you. Bathe your pet less frequently and make sure to completely dry them after baths. Brushing their coat stimulates blood circulation and can help improve the overall condition of their skin.
    5. Troublesome Toxins. Keeping walkways walkable and driveways drivable in the winter often requires the use of salt or chemical de-icers which are poisonous to pets. Try to avoid contact with de-icers when with your pet, and wipe them down with a wet towel then completely dry them off after outside play to remove any chemicals they could’ve come in contact with. Remember, if you’re putting antifreeze in your car, use a pet-friendly or propylene glycol option. Antifreeze tastes sweet and dogs (as well as some children!) will readily lick or drink it. Antifreeze is extremely toxic and just a small amount can be fatal.
    6. Snugly Shelter. Don’t let your cuddly canine sleep on a cold floor in winter. Choosing the right bedding is important to ensure your pet stays warm. Warm blankets can create a snug environment; raised beds can keep your pet off cold tiles or concrete, and heated pet beds can help keep the stiffness out of aging joints. Place your pet’s bed in a warm spot away from drafts, cold tile or uncarpeted floors, preferably in a favorite spot where they sleep every day so that the area doesn’t feel unfamiliar.
    7. Check under the hood! Animals often sleep in the wheel wells of cars during the winter months to keep warm. If you start your car and an animal is sleeping on your tire, it can be severely hurt or even killed by moving engine parts. Prevent injuries by banging loudly on your hood or honking the horn before starting your car. This will wake up the pet and give it a chance to escape before starting the car.
    8. Car safety. Never leave your pet unattended in the car, no matter what the season. Just as cars can get dangerously hot in summer, freezing cold temperatures are equally dangerous for your pet in winter. Cars can act as refrigerators that hold in the cold and cause animals to freeze to death. Leaving the car running involves additional risks, including carbon monoxide poisoning if the car is parked in a garage. Leave your pet at home when you go out to run errands.
    9. Winter Fitness Fun. If it’s not too cold out for you, your pup can get some aerobic exercise outside that will also keep them warm. Walking in wooded areas is a good way to protect them from chilly wind gusts. If it’s too cold, entice them to exercise indoors with tug-of-war, fetch, or a playdate with another pet-friend.
    10. Chilly temps. Remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet, so keep your animals inside. If left outdoors, pets can freeze, become disoriented, lost, stolen, injured or killed. If it’s too cold for you to stand at the door without your coat, it’s probably too cold for your pet too, so pay attention to their behavior while they’re outdoors. If you notice your pet whining, shivering or appearing anxious, or they stop playing and seems to be looking for places to burrow, then it’s time to bring them in.
    11. Snow removal. Snow can be a lot of fun but also dangerous for your animal. Snow piled near fences offers your pet escape routes that even well trained animals often can’t resist. When you clear snow in your yard, pile it away from fences to prevent your pet from climbing over. Snow and ice often accumulate on rooftops and if the sun is out or as temperatures rise, this accumulation can slide and injure your pet. If you can’t clear the snow from the roof, keep your pet away from the roof overhang to prevent injury.
    12. Be Prepared! Winter brings extreme weather that can cause power outages. Have an emergency plan and make sure they include your pets! Have an emergency kit with enough food, water, and medication to last your pets at least five days.

    Additionally, keeping your furry family members safe during the holidays can be a difficult task. There are the ornaments, plants, presents, lights, candles and Christmas trees. Nothing can spoil good cheer like an emergency trip to the veterinary clinic. Let’s take a look at some simple steps that will allow your pets to join in the holiday fun this year, while avoiding  the animal emergency room.

    1. Decorations . Holiday decorations like tinsel and ribbons might make your home sparkle, but they can also be toxic for animals. Even pine needles from a tree can make your pet sick. If you suspect your pet has ingested something, call your vet immediately.
    2. Cute Costumes. While putting costumes on your pet may be cute and hilarious, the pet might not feel the same. Be careful not to go overboard so your pet becomes agitated.
    3. Parties. While some pets are the life of the pet party, others aren’t comfortable with all of the commotion.
    4. Food. Keep people food away from pets. If you want to share holiday treats with your pets, make or buy treats formulated just for them. For example, chocolate is toxic to animals and can even be fatal. Stick with treats that were made with animals in mind.
    5. Holiday Hazards. Make sure your pets stay out of trouble and don’t get in harm’s way.  Here are some potentially dangerous items you should watch out for — especially during the holidays:
    • Wires
    • Batteries
    • Glass or plastic ornaments
    • Candles
    • Alcoholic Drinks
    • Ribbon
    • Plants (like poinsettias, holly and mistletoe) can be toxic

    When it comes to winter preparedness, don’t forget your pets. Please seek immediate medical attention if your pet is showing signs or suffering from a cold weather related injury. Time is of the essence in these cases and can mean a life or death situation. Fast action can protect your pet and precautionary measures can prevent danger.

    Harsh winter weather brings a wide variety of concerns to responsible dog owners. Bitter cold, numbing wetness or biting winds can cause discomfort for that special pet in your life. Paying close attention to your loyal friend’s well being during the winter season will insure that you both enjoy the season to the fullest.

    Pets are protective by nature to their owner and loved ones. Responsible and capable owners must reciprocate by providing protection in return from winter related risks.

    CALL NOW: 857-300-5300 Emergency After Hours Number: 800-894-9267 XLAW1 (5291)

    Resources:
    http://www.mass.gov/eopss/agencies/mema/emergencies/cold/pets.html
    https://www.aspca.org/
    https://www.avma.org/
    http://pets.webmd.com/

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