March is here and do you feel it yet? It’s spring!

We are starting to have some warmer days peppered into our lives and with that, some of us might be itching to get outside. Whether it is to work in our yards, or begin prep on a garden, or just want to stretch our legs on a walk after being cooped up this winter.

No matter what draws us outdoors this spring, we all must make sure we are safe while we are outside and are prepared for the possible severe weather we may experience over the next few months.

When working in the yard, we must take breaks when necessary, avoid lifting heavy objects improperly and wear gloves to protect our hands. Keep in mind that wet leaves are very slippery, so be cautious.

If we are going to be working in the garden and need to be on our hands and knees, a strong gardening stool could be helpful. Not only do they protect our knees, but they make getting up and down safely easier.

Also watch for moss, roots or divots in the yard that may have formed or gotten larger during the winter months. This all can be a tripping or slipping hazard that we can easily forget about until it hurts us.

Maybe carry a walking stick while exploring our yard so we know what work we need to do while making sure we are safe as well.

With the sunshine and higher temps, these spring months also bring the risk of severe weather. We should try our best to be prepared.

According to the Ohio Department of Aging, “Severe Spring and summer weather in Ohio may include severe thunderstorms, tornados, floods and flash floods, high winds, excessive heat, fog, and more.”

It’s important that we prepare as much as we can for the situations we might face. Beyond knowing who to call or where you might go in case of an emergency, consider having a kit ready ahead of time. Knowing where your supplies are is always a priority in everyday life.

In the case of an emergency, what if you lose electricity or must leave your home quickly, or there is flooding and you need all your supplies now? Where do you go?

Being prepared with an emergency kit can take one thing off your plate of stress during an unexpectedly stressful time.

Beyond the flashlights, candles, battery-operated radio, water, canned food, blankets and bandages, older adults may need to include some prescriptions (checking the date every few months so they do not expire) or a cooler and have ice packs ready to grab for medications that need to stay chilled.

Know where any assistive devices we use are being kept and ensure they are in a spot where we can grab them easily.

Just think ahead so you do not panic if something does happen, and hopefully you never have to use it.

By being proactive and being prepared we can go outside, enjoy the sunshine while getting some fresh air, and maybe accomplish some spring cleaning. We shouldn’t be scared to do any of this.

Instead, we must plan so we can accomplish it all safely and in our own time.

Mallory Wiand is the Wellness and HEAP coordinator at Direction Home of Eastern Ohio. Contact the office at 330-505-2300 for information regarding senior-based services and opportunities in the Mahoning Valley.