Winter’s snow, sleet, and ice can wreak havoc on our bodies. From sporting events to normal everyday activities, we are more vulnerable to head, hand, shoulder, and back injuries from slips, slides, and falls this time of year. Play it safe while you’re out and about.

Common injuries that doctors at the Rothman Institute see during the winter include: fractures and concussions from falls, sprains and strains from shoveling and bracing yourself when you fall, and hand trauma from snow blower injuries. Here are some tips to help you avoid injury:

• Slow down – Take plenty of time to get where you are going.
• Be aware of your surroundings – Watch for ice on steps, sidewalks, and pathways, and be careful stepping on and off buses and in and out of cars.
• Clear steps and entrances – Remove snow and ice and put down sand and salt to improve traction.
• Wear proper footgear – Wear boots that provide traction and ankle support, and that will keep your feet dry. If you own a pair, wear ice grippers on your footwear for better traction.
• Turn off the snowblower before trying to remove snow from the blades.

Precaution should also be taken during winter sports. In 2004, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reported roughly 500,000 injuries from hockey, ice skating, sledding, snow tubing, snowmobiling, snowboarding, and skiing. Injuries include sprains and strains, dislocations, and fractures.

Some guidelines for winter sport activity include:

• Keep in shape before participating in winter recreation.
• Warm up. Cold muscles and joints are vulnerable to injury.
• Wear protective gear, such as helmets, gloves, and padding.
• Make sure equipment works and is used properly.
• Take breaks to avoid fatigue and stop if you are in pain or exhausted.
• Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
• Know and abide by all rules of the sport.
• Take lessons from a qualified instructor, especially in sports like skiing and snowboarding. Learning how to fall correctly and safely can reduce the risk of injury.
• Seek shelter and medical attention immediately if you, or anyone with you, is experiencing hypothermia or frostbite. Make sure everyone is aware of proper procedures for getting help before an injury occurs.