Winter Safety

This ‘Winter Safety’ notice has been prepared to help remind us all of some simple tips to stay safe through the winter months. It has been designed to create some thought amongst us all.

Winter safety advice can often tell us things that we already know. For example, we all know that pavements and roads become slippery in cold and wet weather, and we should take extra care. Even though we know this, more accidents happen in the winter months because many of us forget the risks we take when we are in a rush. We need to look out for each other and highlight dangers to make sure that we all stay safe every day.

For a starting point, have torches handy around the home in case of a power cut. And some spare batteries too! Andkeep emergency numbers nearby in case of a power cut or water supply issue for example

Our actions affect others: Whenever there is an accident, however small, it affects you, the people around you, and even your family. So, when you act in a safe way it ensures that everyone connected to you is safe too. Things to think about;

Slips, trips, and falls: When you know your environment so well, it is easy to overlook the subtle dangers that winter brings. At this time of year, wet or icy surfaces and less daylight can cause accidents that not only affect you.To help reduce the risk of a slip, trip or fall:

 

• Take extra time.
• Be extra aware of your environment and hidden hazards.
• Wear appropriate footwear. Wear shoes with good grip.
• Report poor lighting on site, and walkways.

Take extra care if the ground is slippery. and consider using salt and grit mixture to grit paths. You could ask your neighbours for help to clear paths or driveways clear in bad weather – most people are more than happy to help.

Alcohol: Know the limits. Most of us have had days where we have felt the effects of the night before, but one extra drink on a night can have serious consequences the next day. If alcohol is still in your system the morning after, think about the impact that could have when driving. To help reduce the risk, and to enjoy alcohol responsibly:

 

• Do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• When taking prescription drugs, always ask your GP about any possible side effects. If in doubt drive.
• Take care when arriving home after a night out or saying goodbye to visitors. Pathways to your home may be slippery if the temperature has dropped or it has been raining.

Mental wellbeing: There is often an increase in people feeling low in the winter season. This could be due to post-holiday blues, or something like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – a condition that is related to depression.

It is important that we are all aware of each other’s moods and behaviour. The earlier you talk about how you are feeling, and access the right support, it can help you to remain safe and healthy.

Our top 2 wellbeing tips to help maintain mental health and wellbeing:

 

• If you are feeling low or depressed, speak to someone – a friend, family member, your GP or even a neighbour.
• If you notice a change in the mood or behaviour of the people nearby, ask them how they are and if they would like to talk about it.

Do let us know if you feel there is more we can do to support or if you need help