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Winter Street Scene

Winters in New England can be enjoyable and fun - but staying warm, healthy and safe requires preparation. Here are some tips and suggestions for not only surviving, but getting the most out of the winter!

Winter Clothing Essentials

Getting the right clothing for the winter months is essential! As we head into the winter, it's important to invest in some essential winter clothing, including:

  • a heavy winter coat or puffy jacket, along with a winter waterproof jacket for wetter weather
  • winter gloves or mittens
  • a scarf
  • a winter knit cap or hat
  • earmuffs
  • light and heavy sweaters
  • thermal underwear, stockings, or winter undergarments
  • snow boots or waterproof shoes, such as duck boots
  • thick socks for cold weather

 

Image of man in winter jacket

Learn How to Layer

The secret to staying warm in the winter is layering your clothing to trap heat - instead of wearing one heavy item, wear several layers of thinner items! Start with a base layer (thermal undergarments, long-sleeve T-shirts, long underwear, stockings or leg warmers) that will keep you dry by wicking away moisture. Then, add a midlayer (a warm cotton or wool shirt with a sweater) to keep the heat in, and finally an outer layer (an insulated coat or jacket) to protect you from the wind, rain, and snow.

Also, be sure to wear a hat to protect your head and ears from wind and cold!

Smart Shopping

Many stores in the area carry winter clothing and other items at reasonable prices. Search for a local Goodwill store or a thrift, consignment, or vintage store that sells used clothing in your area (use Google or Yelp to find recommendations in your neighborhood). Many of these stores will offer special discounts on specific days or times of the year. In addition, many department stores and "big box" chain stores such as Target, Walmart, Primark, and others will also have sales around holidays such as Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving). More expensive winter clothing, including puffy jackets and high-quality snow boots, can be purchased at sporting goods or outdoor activities stores such as Dick's, Columbia, North Face, Patagonia, and REI.

Winter Street Scene

Planning for Bad Weather and Snow Hazards

  • Keep some extra dry or canned food supplies, water, batteries, and a flashlight at home, in case there's a snowstorm or power outage and you're unable to get to a supermarket for supplies
  • Watch the streets and sidewalks for snow and "dark ice" (ice patches that are hard to see), and talk to your landlord about clearing the snow and ice around your apartment
  • Report any other sidewalk or snow hazards to your local city or town government (examples: review the Medford services and Somerville winter guide)
  • If you own a car, consider limiting your driving or getting winter tires to handle snowy and wet driving conditions
  • Check the weather report every morning and evening so you can plan for the day
  • Subscribe to Tufts emergency announcements in case school will close due to bad weather
  • If you take public transportation, read the MBTA Alerts page for service announcements
  • As a rule, add a lot of extra time for any trip
Hot chocolate

Enjoy the Winter and Take Care of Yourself

Keep Hydrated, Healthy, and Active

  • Drink extra water during the winter - it's easy to get dehydrated quickly when it's cold and dry outside
  • Use lip balm to prevent chapping
  • Consider getting a low-cost humidifier for your room or apartment - you not only need heat, but moisture, to keep healthy during the cold season
  • Follow these recommendations for winter strength-building exercises and continue to use the Tufts fitness center to stay active
  • Consider doing some winter outdoor sports in the Boston area, like ice skating, snow shoeing, and skiing - there are many fantastic options

Campus Resources

Don't forget to take care of yourself during the winter. Continue to use the Tufts Student Health Center, Counseling and Mental Health Services, and the International Center if you have any questions or concerns. During the winter break, the International Center will remain open from 9am - 5pm except on November 28 and 29 (Thanksgiving Holiday), December 23 - 25 (Christmas break), and January 1 (New Year's).

Suitcase on car

Traveling and Safety Issues

Apartment Safety

If you are going to be away for the winter vacation, take steps to make sure your apartment / residence and belongings are safe.

  • Have a friend or neighbor or your apartment building manager check on your apartment periodically while you are away
  • Consult with your apartment manager on what to do if there is a "deep freeze" or bitter cold during your vacation - freezing temperatures may cause water pipes to break or get damaged
  • Buy a switch timer to turn on your apartment lights at different times of the day - this will make it seem like you're home, reducing the likelihood of burglary
  • Make sure your windows are closed and locked before you leave

Travel Safety

  • Flights can be delayed due to winter storms - plan to come back early and have a "backup" plan if bad weather prevents you from coming back on time
  • If you are driving, drive slowly - the winter holidays are often the most hazardous time of the year for drivers
  • Have an emergency contact for your departure and arrival destinations, so people know when to expect you

The International Center wishes everyone a happy and safe winter season!