Winter Awareness & Safety: A Comprehensive Guide for Clients and Caregivers

Winter in Idaho brings beauty—but it also brings challenges. Snow, ice, freezing temperatures, transportation barriers, and seasonal health concerns can all impact daily life for individuals with disabilities and the caregivers who support them. Whether living independently, relying on daily assistance, or providing care to others, winter preparedness is essential to maintaining health, safety, and stability.

This Winter Awareness Guide is designed to support both clients and caregivers, offering practical tips, safety reminders, and planning strategies to help keep everyone safe, warm, and prepared throughout the coldest months.

Understanding Winter Risks for Vulnerable Populations

Individuals with disabilities may face additional challenges during winter, including:

• Increased fall risks

• Limited mobility on snow or ice

• Communication or sensory barriers

• Difficulties regulating body temperature

• Interruptions to transportation or caregiver schedules

• Delays in access to medications, appointments, or supplies

Caregivers also face risks:

• Driving in hazardous conditions

• Burnout from seasonal stress

• Managing unpredictable schedules or emergencies

• Supporting clients during power outages or severe weather

Winter safety begins with awareness—and continues with planning, preparation, and consistent communication.

1. Home Safety & Cold-Weather Preparedness

Maintaining a safe home environment is critical during winter, especially for clients who spend more time indoors. Caregivers should help ensure the home is ready for extreme weather.

Heating Safety

• Keep indoor temperatures above 68°F for safety.

• Ensure heaters are approved, functional, and placed on a stable surface.

• Never use stoves or ovens for heat.

• Avoid overloading outlets with space heaters.

• Install carbon monoxide detectors—winter increases risk.

• Check that there are no frozen pipes

Emergency Supplies Checklist

Every client’s home should have:

• Flashlights and extra batteries

• Blankets and warm clothing

• Shelf-stable food and bottled water

• A backup power bank or charger

• A first-aid kit

• A list of emergency contacts

• Extra medications (minimum 7-day supply)

• Manual can opener (if needed)

Caregivers should review these supplies monthly during winter.

2. Fall Prevention in Snow & Ice

Slip-and-fall injuries are one of the most common winter hazards for clients and caregivers alike.

For Clients

• Wear shoes or boots with non-slip soles.

• Use mobility aids (canes, walkers, grip attachments) as needed.

• Take small, slow steps—“walk like a penguin.”

• Avoid carrying heavy items while walking outside.

For Caregivers

• Pre-assess outdoor routes before escorting clients.

• Use ice melt or sand on walkways.

• Encourage mobility devices even for clients who “usually don’t need them.”

• Help clients in and out of vehicles slowly and safely.

Accessibility reminder: If walkways or entrances become blocked by snow, report it immediately or arrange for snow removal. Accessible pathways must stay clear at all times.

3. Transportation Safety & Winter Travel Planning

Transportation can be unpredictable, especially in rural areas.

Clients Should:

• Plan appointments earlier in the day when roads are typically clearer.

• Keep important phone numbers accessible (care team, transport providers, clinic, pharmacy).

• Arrange transportation 24–48 hours in advance when possible.

• Allow extra travel time to avoid rushing.

Caregivers Should:

• Check weather and road conditions before leaving.

• Communicate delays or route changes promptly.

• Ensure vehicles have:

  • Snow tires or chains

  • Ice scraper

  • Blanket

  • Water and snacks

  • Fully charged phone

  • Ensure all windows and top of vehicle is fully clear of any snow, ice or water.

  • Ensure that the vehicle fluids are all full

  • Ensure that the vehicle is properly warmed up

• Never transport clients if roads are unsafe. Rescheduling is always better than risking travel.

4. Medication & Medical Equipment Preparedness

Cold weather can interfere with medication access and medical devices.

Clients & Caregivers Should Ensure:

• Medications are not exposed to freezing temperatures.

• Refills are ordered early to avoid weather delays.

• Battery-operated devices (oxygen, wheelchairs, hearing devices) have backup batteries.

• Power-dependent equipment has a winter emergency plan.

If a client relies on electricity for medical devices, notify local utility companies—they often offer priority response during outages for medically vulnerable customers.

5. Health & Wellness During Winter Months

Cold weather affects physical and mental health.

Protecting Physical Health

• Dress in layers, including hats and gloves.

• Avoid staying outside longer than necessary.

• Stay hydrated—winter dehydration is common.

• Eat regular, nutritious meals to maintain body heat and energy.

Mental Health Awareness

Winter can increase symptoms of:

• Depression

• Isolation

• Anxiety

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Strategies to support emotional wellness:

• Keep consistent routines

• Engage in indoor activities or hobbies

• Maintain social connections virtually or in person

• Use natural light when possible

• Ask for help when feeling overwhelmed

Caregivers should monitor changes in mood or energy and encourage open communication.

6. Emergency Planning for Clients & Caregivers

A winter storm, freeze or power outage can occur at any time. An emergency plan ensures everyone knows what to do.

A complete winter emergency plan includes:

• Who to call in different types of emergencies

• A backup caregiver if primary support cannot travel

• Safe shelter locations

• A transportation plan

• Medication and equipment checklists

• Instructions for critical medical needs

• A communication strategy if cell service is disrupted

Caregivers should review the plan with clients regularly.

7. Communication: The Key to Winter Safety

Communication is one of the strongest tools for preventing winter emergencies.

Clients should:

• Inform caregivers of any concerns immediately

• Report symptoms like dizziness, chills, or breathing difficulties

• Notify staff if they are running low on food, medication, or supplies

• Let their team know when they will be away from home

Caregivers should:

• Check in more frequently during storms or extreme temperatures

• Confirm schedules the day before and day of appointments

• Coordinate with the team for backup coverage

• Document any weather-related changes or safety concerns

Strong communication prevents small issues from becoming emergencies.

Conclusion: Staying Safe, Connected, and Prepared This Winter

Winter in Idaho can be unpredictable, but preparation goes a long way toward keeping clients and caregivers safe. At New Hope Services, we are committed to supporting individuals through every season with compassion, safety-focused practices, and person-centered care.

By planning ahead, staying aware of weather conditions, and working as a team, we can ensure that everyone remains safe, warm, and well throughout the winter months.

If you ever need help with winter planning, safety concerns, or support resources, New Hope Services is here for you every step of the way.