The winter season is approaching and many things come along with this time of year including cold 
weather, flu and colds, and increased traffic and traveling that require people to use more caution every day. According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), retailers are expected to hire between 720,000 and 780,000 seasonal workers this holiday season. This is aligned with the actual 720,500 seasonal workers retailers hired in 2012, which was a 13 percent year-over-year increase from 2011. Below are a few tips to stay safe while at work, home and traveling throughout the winter season.
At Work:
When your body temperature drops, your nerve cells and muscles work more slowly, which makes you clumsier. An example of this is when you are tying a shoelace or fastening a button in cold weather. This is one of many reasons to use extra caution if you are working in cold weather. Working in cold weather puts enormous strain on your body. To fight back, try these cold-weather safety tips while working on the job:
- Wear a hat—20 to 30 percent of your body heat is lost through your head.
- Take frequent breaks in warm, dry shelters to allow your body to warm up.
- Clean off work surfaces covered by ice or snow to prevent falling.
- Drink plenty of liquids, but avoid caffeine and alcohol
It’s ok to “overdress” with layers, because you can always take away something to get more comfortable rather than not having enough layers on to keep warm. These are just a few suggestions to keep yourself safe at work during cold weather, but be sure to check with your company’s policies regarding clothing and safety regulations. This could apply to employees working inside or outside. For example your company may forbid space heaters to be used at your desk or hat to be worn inside.
At Home:
Although winter comes as no surprise, many of us are not ready for its arrival. Be sure to winterize your home by installing weather stripping, insulation, and storm windows as well as cleaning out gutters and repairing roof leaks. Check your heating systems to make sure they are working properly. Ensure smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly and have a safe alternate heating source available.
Flu activity is unpredictable but often peaks in January or February. Here are a few tips to reduce your risks of getting sick.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating, or use hand sanitizer if you can’t get to a sink.
- Avoid touching your nose or eyes, two common places for germs to get in.
- Get a flu shot early, but it’s never too late!
- Keep working surfaces, telephones and computers clean by using germ killing cleansers.
Traveling:
Traveling becomes more difficult in the winter months due to weather causing more wear on your vehicle and causing slippery driving conditions. Get your car ready for cold weather use before winter arrives by using some of these helpful tips:
- Keep your gas tank full to avoid ice in the tank and fuel lines.
- Use a wintertime formula in your windshield washer.
- Prepare a winter emergency kit to keep in your car in case you become stranded. Some examples could include:
- blankets
- booster cables, flares, tire pump, and a bag of sand or cat litter (for traction)
- flashlight, battery-powered radio, and extra batteries;
- first-aid kit
Fall and winter are a beautiful time of year but are accompanied by hazards that can be less harmful if prepared for. Enjoy the holiday season and be sure to check with your company or supervisor for any additional tips on keeping safe at work!
Data and information received from NRF, Barrow Group and Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Websites.