3 Simple Winter Safety Tips Shared by Neurologist Dr Bing

Winter brings cold winds, shorter days, and new health challenges. As temperatures drop, people often turn to heaters, spend more time indoors, and become less active. These changes can affect both the body and mind. To help everyone stay safe this season, neurologist and brain-health expert Dr Bing shared three simple but important precautions that can protect overall wellbeing.

Dr Bing explained these tips in a video posted on November 15. He focused on common winter habits that many people do not think twice about, such as using space heaters, handling low daylight hours, and doing physical activities without warming up. He warned that ignoring these habits can lead to serious health risks.

His first advice was to use space heaters with great caution. Many people rely on room heaters to stay warm, especially in very cold areas. But he noted that space heaters are one of the biggest causes of winter fires. They become even more dangerous in rooms with poor ventilation. Some heaters release carbon monoxide, a gas that you cannot see or smell. When this gas fills a closed space, it lowers the amount of oxygen reaching the brain.

Dr Bing said he sees cases of carbon monoxide poisoning every year. Even mild exposure can cause headaches, confusion, and memory problems. Severe exposure may lead to brain injury or even death. He urged people to keep heaters at a safe distance from blankets and furniture, ensure fresh air flow, and install carbon monoxide detectors if possible.

His second point focused on reduced daylight during winter. When days get shorter and sunlight becomes limited, the brain’s natural chemicals also change. Levels of serotonin and melatonin, which control mood and sleep, may drop. This can lead to fatigue, poor focus, and even seasonal affective disorder, a type of depression linked to lack of sunlight.

To fight this, Dr Bing suggested simple habits. Using a light box for 20 to 30 minutes in the morning can help reset the brain’s internal clock. Going outside when the sun is out, even for a short walk, can improve mood. Regular exercise also supports hormone balance and boosts energy during winter months.

The third precaution was about physical activity. Many people feel they are not working hard in winter because they do not sweat as much. But cold weather can trick the brain into thinking the body is less active than it really is. This can be dangerous, especially during heavy tasks like shovelling snow or lifting weights.

Dr Bing warned that sudden intense activity in cold weather can strain the heart and cause strokes or heart attacks in some individuals. To prevent this, he advised everyone to warm up for five to ten minutes before any physical work. Stretching and gentle movement help the muscles prepare. He also suggested taking breaks every 15 to 20 minutes to avoid overexertion.

His overall message was clear: winter requires extra attention and care. The season can be safe and enjoyable if people stay aware of the risks and adopt healthy habits. Using heaters safely, protecting mental health, and preparing the body before activity can prevent many accidents and health problems.