Pediatric doctor shares winter safety tips for Texas families

LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - Texas winters bring unpredictable weather patterns, with temperatures swinging from mild to freezing within days.

While families adjust their outdoor plans accordingly, pediatric emergency physicians say certain indoor hazards remain constant regardless of outside conditions.

Dr. Darshana Krishna, a pediatric emergency physician, identifies carbon monoxide as one of the most serious threats to children during winter months.

The colorless, odorless gas can quickly affect children before parents recognize the danger signs.

“Carbon monoxide toxicity is life-threatening if you are having symptoms, especially significant symptoms such as headaches, dizziness or almost having a brain fog and you’re not able to think properly,” Krishna said. “Go to the nearest emergency room.”

Krishna recommends installing carbon monoxide detectors on every floor of the home and replacing batteries every six months. This simple maintenance routine can mean the difference between early detection and a potentially fatal situation.

Common household activities can create unexpected carbon monoxide risks. Krishna warns against warming vehicles in closed garages, even briefly.

“Turning your car on in an enclosed garage sounds like a good idea because it’s going to get your car nice and toasty, but unfortunately carbon monoxide can build up in an enclosed space and it may get into your house,” she said. “You want to make sure you have your garage doors up so the space is well ventilated.”

Children require extra attention when it comes to staying warm, as their bodies lose heat more rapidly than adults. Krishna offers a straightforward guideline for parents.

“The general rule for clothing is younger children and infants is they need one extra layer of clothing than what you’re wearing,” Krishna said. “If I’m wearing a dress and a jacket, my child probably needs a dress, a jacket and another blanket or something extra to keep them warm and cozy.”

When Texas does experience snow or extended cold periods, children often want to stay outside longer than advisable. Krishna suggests taking regular breaks and providing snacks to help maintain energy levels.

“If your child is playing outside in the snow it’s good to take smaller breaks try to give them a snack so they have the energy glucose to keep them warm,” she said.

For families using space heaters, Krishna emphasizes three key safety measures: maintain three feet of clearance around the unit, choose models with automatic shutoff features, and position heaters away from children’s reach.

These precautions help Texas families navigate winter weather safely while protecting their children from both obvious and hidden seasonal dangers.