We are deep in the bitter cold of a Utah winter. We’re months away from regular temperatures in the 60s, and still, have to experience many more days in single digits before the thaw. You may be worried about what this means for your back since you’ll probably need to log more time shoveling your driveway and sprinkling ice-melt on your walks. Unfortunately, there is a long list of additional inconveniences that come with the coldest days of the year.
It’s important that you resist the urge to hibernate until Easter and instead take some time to protect yourself, your loved ones, and your home to withstand these remaining weeks and months of Utah’s coldest season.
We have a few ideas that can help you stay warm and comfortable.
5 Dangers of Utah’s Coldest Days
1. Illness
The virus causing the common cold loves those cold temperatures. With more people trapped inside, runny noses, coughing and wiping it’s far too easy for germs to make their way from person to person. You’re less likely to exercise and eat well when it’s cold since it’s more inconvenient. You may feel like you’re fighting off illness all winter long. Take proper precautions when a cold snap is coming: wash your hands, get your flu shot, ramp up your Vitamin C consumption, and stay hydrated and rested.
2. Injury
Whether it’s shoveling snow, negotiating an icy sidewalk, skiing, or whiplash from a snowy car pileup, injuries are common in the winter months. Do everything you can to avoid injury by staying indoors, wearing proper footwear, shoveling early and frequently, and driving extra slow.
3. Breathing
While we are so blessed to live in an area with epic scenery, the tradeoff is that we are often stuck with the dreaded inversion effect. Pollution and allergens get trapped close to the earth, which can spell disaster for those with asthma, allergies, or weakened respiratory systems. Even when the air is clean, the colder temperatures can strain the respiratory system and trigger asthma. Stay inside, change out your filters, dust frequently, limit your car trips, and use humidifiers to soothe your airways.
4. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
The risk of carbon monoxide poisoning goes up in the winter because we spend so much more time indoors and we rely on our heating systems to keep us comfortable. Faulty heating systems can cause you to feel dizzy, nauseous, or out-of-breath, and eventually lead to unconsciousness and even death. Check your carbon monoxide monitors and have one of our experts at Complete Heating and Air come assess your current heating and air conditioning system for weaknesses or dysfunction.
5. Depression
Seasonal depression is common in men and women, especially when the winters are darker and colder than normal. It can make you feel exhausted and miserable. For some people, a Vitamin D supplement or lightbox can work wonders. Try to get outside safely, with plenty of warm and protective clothing. Exercise when you can and seek support from loved ones.
Although winter can be draining, there are ways to make it more comfortable and safe. We wish you a warm, safe, and happy winter season from Complete Heating and Air.
