Icy slips and winter tips

4 pieces of cold-weather advice

From black ice on roads and constant frost on the windshield to windy sub-zero temperatures and finger-numbing walks to class, Midwest winters are not something to be joked about. If you are like me, you just can’t get enough of the brisk feeling in the air. Some of you, however, may feel out of place in the cold. Here is a list of tips that might help you survive a little longer in the Midwest this winter.

1. Always wear waterproof/resistant shoes

When the snow and ice is out, the boots are on. The more your shoes are resistant to the elements, the more comfortable and warm you will stay. You will want shoes that not only stay insulated, but also have decent grip. There have been times when what appears to be a mere puddle turns out to be a four-inch pool of water along a well-traveled trail or sidewalk.

2. Keep your vehicle/mode of transportation properly equipped

If you do drive a vehicle and you are prepping for the winter, I recommend that you keep an ice scraper in your car for those freezing mornings. I also suggest that you keep the antifreeze in your vehicle topped up. If there is a winter storm coming and you know you have to travel on a daily basis, I propose the idea of jumper cables, a blanket and a basic emergency medical kit. 

3. Driving with icy roads

When driving on icy roads, the brake pedal is not your buddy. You will have several options when it comes to stopping your vehicle but a bumper hugger should not be one of them. Having lived in Florida, I did not learn this the easy way. I would start with pumping your brakes so those hard stops do not turn into slides and crashes. If you do start to slide, don’t panic. Hold the wheel steady and let up on the break, then press it down again. 

4. Dress for a mess

The wintery climate can be something that a lot of people have trouble with. But when it comes to clothes, I have a one word suggestion: layers. Layering when it is cold outside can be lifesaving. The difference between two layers and three could prevent those 15 mile-an-hour winds from bothering you and making you shiver. The next items on the wardrobe list come as a couple: gloves and a hat. Save those digits and ears from the cold with just a simple covering. It could be as simple as muffs or a snow cap for your ears. But when it comes to those precious phalanges, cover them up with some gloves.

So there you have it. Next time you think about walking outside in the cold, remember these tips. If you see someone struggling with this winter, offer to help them out! With the right tools, you’ll be a winter pro in no time. 

By: Gabriel Sanders