Midwesterners expect harsh wind chills and piles of snow in winter. But, knowing what’s coming and being prepared for winter aren’t always the same thing. Carlos Martinez, MD, Emergency Medicine Physician on staff at Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital, offers these winter safety tips.

Layer on the protection: Grabbing a heavy down coat is quick and easy, but it’s not the best way to stay warm. “Wear layers of lightweight clothing instead of relying on a bulky coat,” says Dr. Martinez. Keep skin dry by wearing moisture-wicking synthetic material rather than cotton.

Dressing little ones can be tricky, particularly since kids don’t always think they need extra layers and parents often think the opposite. “People tend to overdress their children, especially babies,” Dr. Martinez says. “A good rule of thumb is to dress kids and older babies in one more layer than you’d wear yourself.”

Shovel without the strain: “It’s hard work to move heavy, wet snow, especially for people who otherwise don’t get a lot of physical activity,” Dr. Martinez says. “For some, the extra strain could lead to a heart attack.”

Make sure you’re healthy enough for rigorous activity, pace yourself and push snow rather than lifting it out of the way. If you use a snow blower, make sure it is in working order before the first snowfall. “Repeatedly pulling a ripcord with force can lead to overexertion and overwork your heart, too,” cautions Dr. Martinez. Stop working if you feel fatigued or short of breath.

Watch where you walk: Slick ice hidden under fresh snow is a perfect recipe for a fall. If we’re lucky, we just suffer a few bruises and a little embarrassment.

A bad fall could mean broken bones, and for seniors that could mean a hospital stay. “A broken leg to someone in their 30s or 40s is a pain, but it probably won’t be a life-changing event,” says Dr. Martinez. “For someone in their 70s or 80s, a broken hip often means surgery and a longer recovery.” Prevent injuries before they start. Keep your walkways clear and dry, and wear boots with good traction.

Prevent colds & flu: Being outside won’t bring on colds and flu. Being cooped up inside, however, could. “We spend a lot of time during winter stuck inside breathing dry, re-circulated air. That makes it easy for viruses to spread,” Dr. Martinez explains.

Get a flu shot, and wash your hands frequently. “Teach your kids to cough into the crease of their arm instead of their hands to prevent germs from spreading,” Dr. Martinez adds. Finally, don’t touch your face after touching doorknobs or computer keyboards, two places germs love to settle.

Play it safe: Winter sports like skiing, ice skating, sledding or snowboarding are fantastic family activities. And, getting time outside in the fresh air can help ward off the winter blues. But taking proper safety precautions is key.

“Make sure your equipment and safety gear fits properly,” cautions Dr. Martinez. Have fun at your own pace. “Don’t ski the expert slopes if you’re still a beginner, and find sledding hills that don’t have obstacles like trees and rocks,” he says. Drink plenty of water during your winter activities. “Dehydration can happen in winter too, even though you may not feel the same intense thirst you might in the summer,” says Dr. Martinez.

Fight frostbite: Children are more likely to develop frostbite than adults. Dr. Martinez urges parents to be prepared and know how to treat the condition. “Wet mittens or socks can lead to frostbite,” Dr. Martinez explains. “Have extra pairs of mittens and dry clothing available.”

Make sure children come in to warm up every 30 minutes, and keep your kids inside when the temperature drops below 20 degrees. If frostbite has developed, warm up the affected area gradually. “Use a damp, warm – not hot – cloth. Stay inside to avoid the risk of refreezing the affected areas. And, never rub frostbitten skin,” Dr. Martinez explains. Head to the emergency room for treatment if symptoms aren’t getting better.

Even the most well prepared families can suffer winter mishaps. If you do need emergency treatment, you’ll find caring staff and expert physicians at the emergency room at Adventist Bolingbrook Hospital. “We know nobody looks forward to an ER visit,” Dr. Martinez says. “That’s why we do everything we can to put you at ease and give you the best care possible.”