The shortest day of year and the official first day of winter has arrived! It’s a good time to review some tips from the CDC for working in cold environments. Prevention is the best way to avoid cold-related illness and injury.

• Wear several layers of loose clothing for better insulation; take layers off if you begin to sweat and put them back on when you cool down. Inner layers should be wool or synthetic fabrics to wick away moisture; outer layers should be wind and water-resistant.

• Avoid wearing wet clothes.

• Carry extra cold weather gear, such as a change of clothes, in case work clothing gets wet.

• Protect the ears, face, hands, and feet by wearing hats, gloves, socks, and boots.

• Take regular breaks to warm up.

• Monitor your physical condition and that of coworkers.

• Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.

• Avoid touching cold metal or wet surfaces with bare skin.

It only gets brighter from here as the days get longer & warmer weather will return.