Michigan Winter Weather Safety Tips

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

1. Apply Sunscreen: This may seem silly during the winter months, but your children can get sunburned from playing outside. The snow reflects 85% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays, making the use of sunscreen an important step before your children head outside.
2. Check on Children Often

Make sure frostbite doesn’t ruin the fun. Regularly check that your children’s mittens are dry and warm, and that their noses aren’t too red.

3. Limit Snow Shoveling

If your children decide to make a fort or want to help clear the driveway, be mindful of who is shoveling. School-aged kids can easily lift heavy shovels of snow, but it may be too strenuous for younger ages and cause muscle strain.

4. Layer Up

Children should wear multiple layers when playing outside. If the top layers get wet from the snow, your kids can easily peel it off to the dry layers. It also helps to avoid cotton clothing when dressing for outdoor play because it won’t be warm enough in the cold weather. Try to stick with wool or other fabrics.

5. Have a Snack

You’ve heard the tip, “Never eat before swimming.” That doesn’t apply to winter play. Give your kids a snack before they head out in the snow. The calories will give their bodies energy in the cold weather.

6. Supervise Sledding

Knowing about the hill your children want to sled at is essential. If it’s near a busy road, contains rocks, or is steep and covered with trees, it isn’t a safe spot. You can also prevent any accidents by supervising the sledding activity and encouraging your children to wear helmets.