Heading outside? Take precautions in blizzard's wake

After days of snow, wind and bitter cold, kids and adults alike are anxious to get outside. But there are still several safety factors you need to consider before you walk out the door.

Sledding is a fun winter activity, and one we don’t get many opportunities to enjoy in the Ozarks. But Jami Blackwell, Trauma Program manager at CoxHealth, says there are several things to consider to keep yourself and your kids safe on the Ozarks’ hills.

“One of the most important things is to be careful of where you choose to sled,” says Blackwell. She suggests avoiding hills that lead to streets, ponds, lakes and streams. “You’ll also want to choose a hill that’s free from obstacles like trees – collisions can lead to serious injuries. And remember that you can’t see what obstacles may be hidden beneath the snow,” she says.

Other tips include don’t sled alone, and don’t pull sleds behind four-wheelers, lawn mowers or any other motorized vehicle. “It’s very dangerous,” she says.

Blackwell says slips and falls among the elderly are also a big concern after a snowfall, and CoxHealth Emergency rooms and Urgent Care have been busy caring for these patients.

“I always remind the elderly to take extra precautions in the ice and snow. It’s very important they take a cell phone or some other type of communication device with them when they go outside, even if they’re just going to the mailbox. They need to be able to call for help if they need it,” she says. “And they need to watch for black ice.”

Finally, Blackwell says it’s important to bundle up. “The sun might be shining and it might look beautiful outside, but you still have to dress appropriately for the weather,” she says.