9 ways to keep safe and warm during the winter

Whether you're just walking the streets, hitting the slopes or enjoying a sunny winter day out, follow the tips here to keep safe and warm this winter.

What is it about a snowstorm that brings out the child in all of us? Suddenly we're ready to bundle up and head outside to play. Plus, snow is great for a winter workout, what with all the sledding, skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing you can do.

1. Apply a petroleum jelly shield. If it's cold and windy, your face may suffer a case of windburn. A thin coating of Vaseline on exposed skin –- particularly your cheeks, nose, chin, ears and neck –- will help to prevent it.
2. Don't walk with your hands in your pockets.It's pretty basic advice, but that way, you can use your arms to regain your balance if you slip.
3. Beware of ice. If it's icy, wear rubber-soled boots with good traction, go slowly, don't carry too many bags and give yourself extra time to get wherever you're going, whether on foot or in a car.
4. Buy traction devices for your shoes. It's possible to buy anti-slip spikes or stretchable traction devices that fit over your shoes to prevent you from slipping on ice or snow.
5. Look out for patches of white or pale-grey, waxy-textured skin. These are signs of frostbite. Go indoors and get immediate medical attention.
6. It might look silly, but pull large rubber dishwashing gloves over woollen gloves. This will keep your woollen gloves dry.
7. Make sure your boots aren't too tight, either because they're too small or because you've stuffed them with two pairs of bulky socks. You won't have enough blood circulating to your feet and they'll get even colder. Wool or thermal socks are a good choice.
8. Dress in layers. Depending on how active you are, and the outside temperature, you will be able to add or remove layers as needed. Avoid cotton, which gets wet and stays wet. Top your first layer with a fleece garment, then a windproof jacket.
9. Smear on some sunscreen and lip balm if you're out in the snow on sunny days. And slip on a pair of sunglasses or goggles to protect your eyes from the snow's glare. A sunny day in winter is often brighter and more dangerous to your eyes than the summer sun, thanks to the reflection from the ice and snow.