- Dress in Layers with Warm Fabrics
- Start with a moisture-wicking base layer (synthetic or wool), add an insulating middle layer (wool or fleece), and finish with a windproof and waterproof coat. Wool socks and insulated boots are a must to keep your feet warm in Wisconsin’s snowy conditions.
- Protect Your Hands and Feet
- Cold extremities can lead to frostbite quickly. Wear waterproof, insulated gloves or mittens and thick socks. If you need extra warmth, try hand warmers or battery-heated gloves, which are easy to find at hardware stores.
- Cover Your Head and Face
- A thick hat that covers your ears is essential, as most body heat escapes through the head. Use a scarf or a fleece-lined face mask to protect your nose and cheeks when you’re outside in the wind.
- Seal Up Drafts in Your Home
- Block cold air from sneaking in by adding weather stripping around doors, using door sweeps, and sealing windows with plastic insulation kits. Heavy curtains or thermal blinds can also keep your home warmer and reduce heating costs.
- Stay Active Indoors
- Even light movement—like stretching, walking in place, or cleaning—can get your blood flowing and keep you warm without turning up the thermostat.
- Drink Warm Beverages
- Stay cozy with hot tea, coffee, or cocoa, which can help keep your core temperature up. Soups and broths are also great for warmth. Avoid alcohol—it may feel warming at first, but it actually lowers body temperature.
- Bundle Up at Bedtime
- Use flannel sheets, wool blankets, or a down comforter for extra warmth at night. Electric blankets or heated mattress pads are also great options, but remember to follow safety instructions when using them.
- Keep Space Heaters Safe
- If you use a space heater, keep it on a flat, stable surface and away from flammable materials. Don’t leave it running unattended, and make sure it has safety features like an automatic shutoff.
- Eat Nutritious Meals
- Eating hearty, high-energy foods like oatmeal, stews, or healthy fats (like nuts or avocados) gives your body the fuel it needs to stay warm in Wisconsin’s icy winters.
- Limit Time Outdoors
- Plan errands or outdoor chores during the warmest part of the day, typically midday. If you’re shoveling snow, take frequent breaks to warm up inside.
- Stay Dry
- Wet clothes make you lose heat much faster. If you’re outside, dress in breathable fabrics to prevent sweating and change out of damp clothes as soon as possible.
- Keep an Emergency Kit
- In East Central Wisconsin, weather can change quickly. Keep an emergency kit with blankets, extra layers, and non-perishable snacks in your car and home in case of power outages or getting stranded.
- Use Humidifiers
- Cold air is often dry, and running a humidifier in your home can make the air feel warmer and reduce the risk of dry skin or respiratory irritation.
Stop in today, or call now to see how we can help!
