A First Alert about health and safety has been issued by doctors and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation as a snowstorm hits the area. During winter weather, emergency rooms see an increase in weather-related injuries, including slips, falls, car crashes, and heart attacks caused by shoveling snow.
Dr. Alex Smolensky, a cardiologist at Ascension Wisconsin, advises taking it slow on your body and listening to its signals. Instead of lifting heavy snow, he recommends pushing or sweeping it instead. This will help reduce energy expenditure and prevent further strain.
If you’ve experienced a fall and are still feeling pain or numbness, seek medical attention immediately. Dr. Smolensky emphasizes the importance of seeking help if symptoms persist.
Additionally, drivers should exercise caution on the roads during snowfall and after the storm passes. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation warns that most winter crashes occur when drivers fail to adjust their speed according to road conditions.
Key safety tips from the DOT include:
– Never use cruise control in winter weather
– Maintain at least 200 feet distance behind working plows
– Keep a safe distance behind large trucks, as debris can fall off
– Be aware of posted speed limits and adjust your speed accordingly
– Take extra time to stop when driving on bad roads
– Don’t rely solely on four-wheel drive for traction
By following these safety tips and heeding the advice from doctors and the DOT, residents can minimize their risk of injury during snowy weather.
Source: https://www.wbay.com/2025/02/13/when-snow-falls-er-visits-rise