When winter weather sets in, it is important to take extra care to keep you and your loved ones safe. A few tips to keep in mind this season:

Dress for the weather – Bundle up with loose layers of clothing. Do not forget a hat and scarf. If your clothes get wet, change them immediately to prevent a loss of body heat.

Prevent snow-related injuries – Nearly 10,000 people are affected by frostbite each year. The nose, cheeks, lips, ears, hands, and feet are most vulnerable. If your skin is red, numb, hard, or pale – seek medical attention to prevent infection and damage.

Stay warm inside – Avoid the cold altogether and stay warm and toasty inside. Wear socks and slippers, long underwear, or warm pajamas to bed and use extra covers if needed.

Keep fall prevention tips in mind – Navigate icy sidewalks and parking lots by keeping arms free, wearing proper shoes and walking with feet turned outward. If you are unable to safely remove snow, salt icy walkways or other outdoor winter maintenance, ask a loved one or caregiver to assist.

Practice safe winter driving – Prepare your vehicle for winter – ensure maintenance is up to date. When driving, increase following distance to 8 to 10 seconds, accelerate and decelerate slowly. Stock your vehicle with an easily accessible emergency kit that includes blankets and extra winter clothing, snow brush and ice scraper, first aid kit, water/snacks and jumper cables for example.

Take stock of your medications – Some medications can have severe side effects caused by extreme cold. Talk to your doctor about your medications and how they may affect you this winter. If a big storm or icy conditions are in the forecast, make sure you have enough medications to last you a week. Find more winter weather safety and preparedness information at www.jocogov.org/EM.