Whether you are outside for some outdoor activity or outside because you are going from point A to point B, it is always important that you take measures to ensure that you are warm and safe at all time. Although you may not feel the adverse effects of cold weather right away, it is possible for the cold to cause problems, or at the very least, make you physically uncomfortable and unable to function at your best.
Staying warm and safe is important not just for the prevention of hypothermia, but for preventing illness such as the flu. Here are some suggestions that can help you stay warm and safe.
*Bundle up in layers -
You will be warmer and more comfortable if you layer clothing rather than attempting to wear a very heavy coat. A lightweight coat with good insulation will keep you warmer than a heavy down coat, so long as you wear suitable layers under the coat. Long underwear always helps. Instead of trying to wear the heaviest socks you can find, purchase polypropylene sock liners and wear those under a pair of warm wool socks. The sock liners will keep the heat in and that will keep you warm.
*Cover your head -
The surest way to get really cold fast and to get sick on top of that is by not wearing a proper hat. A good hat should cover your head and your ears and hold the heat in well enough to keep your ears warm. If your coat or jacket has a hood, pull the hood up over your hat. The hood can act as a great wind breaker and by keeping the wind away, you will stay warmer.
*Cover your hands properly -
Mittens are generally warmer than gloves. A pair of mittens that fits you properly will keep the cold out and keep your hands warm. The warmth from your body will circulate in the mitten and that will keep your hands continually warm.
Insulated mittens are very good. Make sure that the mittens you purchase are waterproof. Wet mittens are useless at keeping the cold away.
*Wear warm boots -
Waterproof boots that are insulated are ideal for keeping your feet warm and dry. If you buy leather boots, be sure to get the proper waterproofing spray to use on them. You will need to reapply the spray at regular intervals. Buy your boots 1/2 size larger than your street shoe to allow your feet room to move and breathe. Make sure your boots have good traction so you can walk around on snow or ice.
If you apply these simple suggestions, you will be sure to stay warm and safe. Layers will keep you warmer than you'd be if you tried to stay warm by simply wearing a heavy coat. Keeping your extremities covered is equally important. By keeping your extremities covered and sufficiently warm, you will ensure that the rest of your body stays warm.
If you get really cold, you can always purchase activated charcoal hand and foot warmers. Be sure that you are wearing something that will provide you with a good barrier between your skin and the warmers because they do get very hot when exposed to air and you can burn yourself from them.