Cold weather is a given during the winter, but that doesn’t make it any easier. Blistering winds, piles of snow, subzero wind chills, and ice can make anyone miserable. But luckily, 19 Ohio winters have taught me some valuable skills that I’m going to share with you.

1. Blankets are your new best friend

One thing that is a must during winter in the Midwest is a blanket-- preferably more than one, and the heavier they are, the better. There’s nothing more satisfying than coming home after class and just curling up under the blankets. You’ll never want to leave your bed again.

2. Warm up with hot drinks

The fastest way to warm yourself up in the middle of winter is by drinking something hot: coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. Not only does it warm you up from the inside, but it also warms your hands, which if you are anything like me, they are usually icicles.

3. Sweaters: layers can be cute

Sweaters are the go-to winter fashion accessory because you get to look super cute while staying warm. Plus, if you’re inside and you start to overheat, you can always take off your sweater. Remember, the more removable layers you have, the better.

4. Treat your boots

Boots are a staple in winter due to the snow, but you need to waterproof them before you go outside. Snow melts and if your boots aren’t treated, that water is going to soak right through and lead to soggy socks and freezing toes. Not only that, but the boots will also wear out faster. So don’t be cheap-- spend the extra money on some waterproofing conditioner.

5. Bake like your life depends on it

Want to warm up your house super fast? Then bake all day. For most recipes, the oven usually doesn’t go under 300 degrees, and the longer the oven’s on, the warmer it gets. Not only do you now have heat spreading out into the house, but you also have some delicious treats to enjoy.

6. Turn on your heat

This is a given whenever it’s cold, but it’s not only for your comfort. Your house’s pipes are full of water, and guess what happens to water when the temperature drops. Water freezes, which can lead to your pipes bursting. So, to avoid this, turn your heat on. It’s cheaper than having to have someone come out and fix your plumbing.

7. Salt your sidewalks

We all know the LifeAlert, “Help, I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” commercial turned meme, but when it’s icy outside, that can become a reality for many people, and not just the elderly. To help avoid falls, get some sidewalk salt and spread it on your sidewalks and driveways. It won’t completely prevent ice from forming, but it’s better than nothing.

8. Dress accordingly

This should be a no-brainer, but yet you go outside and see guys in gym shorts and t-shirts in freezing weather all the time. Frostbite is not pretty, and you can lose body parts because of it. That’s why it’s super important that you cover as much exposed skin as humanly possible. Gloves, hats, scarves, jackets, and long pants are a necessity every time you go out into the freezing cold.

These are just eight of the things you can do that will help you survive the winter. Just remember, always be careful anytime you’re outside during the winter. Frostbite, hypothermia, and falls are all risks in cold weather, and all can be life-threatening.

Stay warm.