Winter is a wonderful time for many as it’s the season of holidays, but when temperatures drop below freezing, it becomes difficult to even step a foot outside. However, even if you stay in the coldest cities, you can easily find a way to stay warm and cozy indoors or outdoors!
To prepare ourselves for the coming winter and keep the cold out, let’s have a look at some of the simple ways you can keep yourself and others safe this winter!
You’ve likely heard this already, but wearing several thin layers of clothing is actually an effective way of keeping warm as hot air is trapped in between each layer, keeping the body insulated! It keeps us warmer than wearing just one thick item and it’s worth investing in some clothings made of wool, cotton, or fleece as they are the warmest. Once you’ve wrapped yourself up in these layers, don’t forget to also keep your feet warm by inserting foam liners into your boots or hiking shoes as it provides your toes an additional layer of insulation against the chilly ground!
Using heat pads might seem insignificant to some due to its compact size but a single heat pad actually goes a long way. Not only is it inexpensive, it actually works really well so you definitely need to have some of these on hand, outdoors especially! The packets stay warm for hours and will easily warm your freezing hands. You can also DIY one yourself; two Ziploc bags, water, and calcium chloride ice melt pellets from the hardware store!
Did you know that making the appropriate dietary choices will help you remain warm in the winter? The key is to regularly consume hot beverages and meals including soups, stews, and porridge. Besides that, you can remain warm in the cold by eating foods high in fats as your body fat functions as an insulating layer to keep you warm!
Movement not only generates body heat but also helps you maintain strength and mobility! Exercise gets your blood pumping and you’ll be surprised to know how long it keeps you warm. It also releases endorphins, which improve your mood and mental wellbeing in addition to keeping you physically and mentally fit.
Investing in insulation not only helps reduce the risk of chest infections as you wouldn’t be breathing in cold air, but the bulk of heat loss by radiation will be avoided as well. Draw your curtains to trap warm air in and cold air out and seal gaps around windows and doors to prevent heat from leaking out! These can be sealed using low-cost self-adhesive foam strips, albeit they may not last long. Metal or plastic strips with brushes are a more expensive, but more effective, alternative. A thermal sealant can also be used to fill any air gaps!
A humidifier adds moisture to the air and the correct one can assist you in maintaining the proper relative humidity in your house! Symptoms of allergies and winter dryness are common during winter as individuals are mostly indoors hence we are more prone to being infected. According to research, moderate humidity levels may also help reduce airborne infections, lowering the chances of becoming ill!
You might have the privilege of applying all the steps above into your life every winter, but other families around the world do not. Millions of vulnerable families may be exposed to below-freezing temperatures this winter with little to no protection and aren’t able to secure themselves shelter, warm blankets, fuel and other essentials needed to keep themselves warm. You can however keep them warm this winter by contributing to our Winter Emergency Appeal.
