
Lively in Winter: What’s Active?

2024 GOOD: Wrapped
Cold weather, and even snow, shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the great outdoors — but before hitting the frosty trails, taking the pooch for a walk in winter wonderlands, or bracing the chilly air, there’s a few things to know about keeping yourself safe. According to the CDC, about 1 million Americans a year are injured from falling or slipping on ice and snow. That’s not to mention thousands of cases of frostbite and hypothermia each year. Learn some helpful tips, so you can not only enjoy and explore parks this season with your friends and family, but also make sure they, and you, stay safe and warm!
Dress to Impress

The best tip for bracing the outdoors starts at home before you even leave. To combat possible hypothermia, and to make your experience all the more enjoyable, it’s important to bundle up properly. Layers upon layers is your best bet to be fully protected. And who says bundling up can’t be fashionable?
Insulation is everything! We won’t dive into all the science, but in layman’s terms: air pockets form between the fibers of the coat insulation helping provide extra warmth. So when choosing a jacket, always go for insulation, and make sure you’re choosing the right one.
When it comes to shoes, look for options that have the top trio of benefits: good traction, waterproof, and great insulation. This way you won’t slip on ice, get your socks wet with snow (unbearable!), or contract frostbite in the toes.
And one final reminder: When it comes to dressing for winter in the outdoors, less is not more. Every accessory possible will help ensure safety and warmth (warming packets, gloves, hat, earmuffs, etc.)
Taking the fluffy friend out for a walk or a play in winter weather? Just remember: If you’re cold, they’re cold. Plus, a sweater or jacket on a pup is one of the cutest sights imaginable, so it’s a win-win! Make sure they’re properly appareled for the outdoors and be wary if salt is on the ground from snow removal. We’ve got to keep those toe beans safe.
Test the Waters

Before you practice your figure 8, you better figure out if the ice is safe to skate on. If your local park has a frozen-over lake or pond that’s just perfect for a winter activity, ensure all the conditions are right before stepping on the ice!
Clear blue to black ice is safest. Gray ice? That means there is still a presence of water and is unsafe to stand on. Additionally, the very center and very edges of ice patches are the weakest, so make sure your location is just right!
What about playgrounds? Are the kiddos still able to play even on a winter day? Sure! But only if you take the proper precautions for safety. Before playtime begins, check that all the equipment is clear of snow and ice to avoid slipping, frostbite, or wet clothes.
Know the Signs of Hypothermia and Frostbite
The best way to avoid hypothermia and frostbite is, of course, to dress properly in the first place and avoid staying out for extreme periods of time. But if you do happen to worry about the possibility, it’s important to know what to look for, so you’re able to get help or protect yourself before it’s too late.
The fingers, toes, ears, and nose are the most likely to contract frostbite — so gloves, earmuffs, and even balaclavas are great to wear when venturing to the park. Early symptoms? Tingling, numbness, or pain, and white coloring in the area.
Hypothermia symptoms will be a bit more serious: slurred speech, loss of balance, uncontrollable shivering, blue coloring, and more. Ouch.
If you notice any signs of either, it’s important to contact medical attention immediately. And remember, park professionals are always there to help!
Ask a PA Park Professional

You’ve left the house, you’ve reached your park or forest area, but you’re still looking for some more info on what conditions are like. No worries. Ask the park rangers and workers to find out if it’s safe to brace the weather and hit the trails. They’re knowledgeable on their specific park, and the outdoors in general, so you can trust they’ll give you the best insight.
In cases where you don’t consult a park professional? Well, just think: What would a park professional do? Make sure you stay on the trails, don’t stray, don’t stay out for extensive periods of time, bring the proper equipment and clothing, and take it easy.
Going out to your local park in the winter can be a beautiful and exciting experience, with distinct activities like sledding, skating, snowshoeing, and even just plain old wintery landscape sightseeing. But it’s best enjoyable when properly prepared for! Don’t second guess, just take these tips with you and do everything you can to keep yourself and your loved ones (doggos included!) safe.