Safety Tips for Extreme Weather

With the below freezing temperature in the past few weeks, we thought we would give you some practical safety tips for extreme cold! 

1. Wear a Hat

Did you know that 50% of our body heat is lost through our heads when we don't wear hats? Wear a hat. You can find one at your local Dollar Store or Party Store for under $5. We can't stress this enough, wear a hat. 

2. Mittens are Warmer than Gloves

Mittens allow all of your fingers to stay together generating their own body heat. This is a way better alternative than each individual finger freezing because of a glove. Invest in mittens, or make your own out of an old sweater or sweat pants!

3. Rubber Boots

If you can't afford winter boots in this weather, go buy a pair of rubber boots (rain boots, goulashes). They are much cheaper and better insulated than sneakers or any other kind of shoe. You can find rubber boots for cheap at Meijer, WalMart, and some Dollar Stores. Layer a piece of fleece or fabric around your sock for extra warmth in the toe area!

4. Plastic Bag Insulator

If you do not own water proof shoes or if you need extra warmth, a great insulator is a simple plastic bag. Before putting on your boot, wrap the plastic bag around your sock tying it securely around your leg. Then, slip in your foot into the boot and you are ready for the cold! 

5. Warm Rice

A cheap alternative to hand and foot warmers is RICE (or dried beans). Take a piece of fabric (a cut up old t-shirt or sock) and fill it with rice. Before you leave the house, microwave the pouch for 20-30 seconds and then tie off to secure and place into boots or mittens. 

Do you have any tips or tricks that got you through a Detroit winter? We'd love to hear them! Please leave a comment below!