Why Winter Increases Injury Risks

Winter in Australia may not bring snow to most parts of the country, but cooler temperatures and seasonal activities can increase the risk of injuries at home, at work, on the road, and during outdoor activities.

Common winter risks include:

• Burns
• Slips and falls
• Cuts and lacerations
• Sprains and strains
• Cold weather exposure in some regions

A little preparation can help reduce risk and ensure you have the supplies needed to respond if an injury occurs.

Burns Become More Common During Winter

Burn injuries often increase during cooler months due to:

• Heaters
• Fireplaces
• Hot drinks
• Camping equipment
• BBQs and outdoor cooking
• Hot water bottles

Burns can occur:

• At home
• In workplaces
• During travel
• At sporting and community events

First Aid Tip

For most burns:

👉 Cool the burn under cool running water for 20 minutes

Avoid:

• Ice
• Butter
• Oils
• Creams immediately after the burn

Winter Preparedness

Check your first aid kit contains:

• Burn gel
• Burn dressings
• Non-adherent dressings

Slips, Trips & Falls

Wet surfaces, reduced daylight, and winter weather can increase the risk of slips and falls.

Common locations include:

• Workplaces
• Car parks
• Footpaths
• Sporting facilities
• Around the home

Injuries may include:

• Cuts
• Bruising
• Sprains
• Fractures

Useful First Aid Supplies

• Ice packs
• Compression bandages
• Wound dressings
• Adhesive dressings

DIY, Maintenance & Winter Projects

Many Australians use cooler weather to:

• Work in the garden
• Complete home maintenance
• Prepare properties for winter
• Tackle DIY projects

Common injuries include:

• Cuts
• Splinters
• Eye injuries
• Hand injuries

Useful Supplies

• Adhesive dressings
• Gauze swabs
• Eye wash
• Gloves
• Tweezers

Road Trips, Camping & Winter Travel

Winter is a popular time for:

• Camping
• Caravanning
• 4WD touring
• Regional travel

When travelling, consider carrying:

• Vehicle first aid kit
• Burn treatment supplies
• Snake bite bandages
• Emergency blanket
• Roadside safety equipment

Remote travel may require a more comprehensive first aid kit.

Winter Workplace Safety

Many workplaces experience seasonal risks during winter, including:

• Wet floors
• Outdoor work in cold conditions
• Increased use of heaters
• Reduced visibility during shorter daylight hours

Workplace first aid kits should be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain:

• Fully stocked
• In date
• Appropriate for workplace risks

Is Your First Aid Kit Ready for Winter?

Winter is a good reminder to review your first aid kit.

Check for:
✔ Expired supplies
✔ Missing dressings
✔ Burn treatment products
✔ Compression bandages
✔ Gloves and PPE

Whether at home, at work, in a vehicle, or while travelling, having a properly stocked first aid kit can help you respond quickly and confidently when injuries occur.

Winter Preparedness Checklist

Before winter is fully underway:

✔ Review your first aid kit
✔ Replace expired supplies
✔ Restock burn treatment products
✔ Check vehicle kits
✔ Review workplace kits
✔ Ensure remote travel kits are ready

Trainer Insight

Winter doesn’t usually create new injury risks — it tends to increase the likelihood of common injuries such as burns, falls, and minor trauma. A simple review of your first aid supplies before winter can help ensure you’re prepared when you need them most.

FAQ

Why do burns increase during winter?

People spend more time around heaters, fireplaces, hot drinks, cooking equipment, and camping gear.

What should be in a winter first aid kit?

Burn treatment supplies, wound dressings, bandages, gloves, and other general first aid essentials.

Should workplace first aid kits be checked before winter?

Yes. Winter is a good time to review supplies, replace expired items, and ensure kits match workplace risks.

Are vehicle first aid kits important in winter?

Yes. Winter travel, camping, and roadside incidents can increase the importance of carrying a properly stocked first aid kit.

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