Winter Safety Tips For Texas

As temperatures drop in the Lone Star State — or at least we hope they will — many Texans wonder: what are winter safety tips in Texas? While our winters may be much, much milder than those in northern states, recent years have shown us that severe winter weather can strike unexpectedly, leaving unprepared residents vulnerable. From ice storms to prolonged freezes and seasonal illnesses to holiday-related hazards, Texans need to be ready for whatever winter brings. 

Here are the top 7 essential winter safety tips for Texans:

1. Prepare for power outages
2. Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning
3. Guard against winter illness
4. Prevent slips and falls
5. Watch for cold weather health risks

If you experience any medical emergencies, including signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, severe falls, or hypothermia symptoms, dial 911 or seek immediate emergency care at a Complete Care ER location. Our freestanding emergency room is your safest option when the winter season turns dangerous.

1. Prepare for power outages

The devastating winter storm in Texas in 2021 taught us that our power grid can be quite vulnerable during severe weather. Whether it’s a Houston ice storm or a statewide freeze, being prepared for power outages is essential for every Texas household.

Essential preparations for power outages:

• Stock one gallon of water per person per day (3-day supply minimum)
• Keep a battery-powered NOAA weather radio and flashlights
• Store shelf-stable foods that don’t need cooking
• Gather warm blankets and cold-weather clothing
• Keep portable power banks and cars’ gas tanks at least half full
• Maintain a supply of essential medications
• Have cash on hand for emergencies

How to stay warm without power:

• Gather the family in one room
• Block drafts under doors
• Layer clothing instead of relying on one heavy coat
• Never use outdoor heating equipment indoors

In Texas, we’ve seen power outages strike unexpectedly and last for days. Be prepared in advance to keep your family safe and comfortable until power is restored.

2. Prevent carbon monoxide poisoning

Carbon monoxide poisoning cases spike during Texas winter weather events, particularly when residents seek unsafe ways to heat their homes. During unexpected winter storms, Texas hospitals see countless carbon monoxide poisoning cases, many of which could have been prevented by:

• Installing carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home
• Testing detector batteries monthly
• Placing detectors near all sleeping areas
• Replacing detectors every 5-7 years
• Avoiding using gas ovens, grills, or stovetops for heating
• Not letting your car run in a closed, attached garage

If your carbon monoxide detector sounds or you experience any symptoms, immediately:

1. Get everyone outside into fresh air
2. Call 911
3. Don’t reenter the building until emergency responders give clearance

Carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, making it impossible to detect without proper equipment. When in doubt, always get out.

3. Guard against winter illness

Protecting yourself against seasonal illnesses is a vital part of winter weather safety tips. Texas winters bring unique health challenges, from respiratory infections to vitamin D deficiency due to shorter days and increased time indoors.

To keep your immune system up and help guard against winter illnesses, try:

• Getting vaccinated for flu, COVID-19, and RSV (if eligible)
• Watching for RSV symptoms: coughing, wheezing, rapid breathing (Learn more about RSV symptoms and treatments)
• Combating vitamin D deficiency with sunlight or supplements
• Washing hands frequently and maintaining good ventilation
• Staying hydrated and eating immune-boosting foods
• Getting adequate sleep and exercise
• Staying home when sick to prevent spread

If you experience severe symptoms, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or persistent fever, seek immediate medical attention. Don’t wait until symptoms become severe before contacting your healthcare provider.

4. Prevent slips and falls

Preventing slips and falls is crucial among safety tips for winter weather, especially in Texas, where we’re less accustomed to icy conditions. Falls are among the most common reasons for ER visits during the holidays, whether from icy walkways or decorating accidents.

To prevent dangerous falls this winter season:

• Wear shoes with good traction, even for quick trips outside
• Clear ice from walkways using sand or cat litter for grip
• Install adequate outdoor lighting around steps and walkways
• Use a sturdy ladder (not chairs or tables) for decorating
• Have someone spot you while hanging lights or decorations
• Keep floors dry and immediately clean up spills
• Secure loose rugs and remove tripping hazards

If you experience a serious fall, especially with head impact, loss of consciousness, or inability to move normally, seek immediate emergency care. Even seemingly minor falls can result in serious injury if not properly evaluated.

5. Watch for cold weather health risks

Being alert to health risks in cold weather is vital during Texas winters. While our winters may be generally mild, sudden temperature drops can be especially dangerous because many residents aren’t acclimated to extreme cold.

To protect against cold-related health emergencies:

• Learn to recognize hypothermia signs: confusion, slurred speech, intense shivering
• Watch for frostbite symptoms: numbness, pale/grayish skin, loss of feeling
• Check on elderly neighbors and those with limited mobility
• Bring pets indoors during cold snaps
• Wear layers of loose-fitting, warm clothing when outdoors
• Limit outdoor time during the coldest parts of the day
• Stay dry, as wet clothing dramatically increases heat loss

Hypothermia or frostbite can become life-threatening quickly, especially in vulnerable populations like the elderly or children. If you or someone else shows any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately.

For immediate treatment of any winter-related emergency, visit your nearest Complete Care location.

Accidents and illnesses can still happen, even when you’re following all of the winter safety tips listed above. When an emergency does arise, let Complete Care take complete care of you.

As a 24/7, freestanding ER, our board-certified physicians and medical staff are equipped to handle all winter emergencies, providing the same level of care as a hospital ER but with more personalized attention and shorter wait times.

Whether you’re close to one of our locations in Texas (Austin, Corpus Christi, Dallas/Fort Worth, East Texas, Lubbock, and San Antonio) or are suffering from a winter sports injuries in Colorado and heading to our location in Colorado Springs, you can trust Complete Care to provide exceptional emergency care when minutes matter most.

Know where to go: find your nearest location today and keep our number handy.

More Helpful Articles by Complete Care:

• The Dangers of Poorly Managing Stress During the Holidays
• When Does RSV Virus and Rash Appear?
• How Long Does Measles Last?
• Toxic Shock (TSS) Syndrome Signs
• What to Expect at a Standalone ER Visit