Working Hard, Taking Heart
Outdoor safety tips from your neighbors at CityServiceValcon
February is American Heart Month, a good reminder that the most important piece of equipment on any job is not the tractor, truck, or tool in your hands. It is the one doing the lifting, hauling, and showing up day after day.
From winter cold to summer heat, being outdoors asks a lot of your body. Here are a few practical ways to take care of yourself through every season.
Cold Weather is Tough on More Than Your Toes
Winter has a way of sneaking up on you. One minute you feel fine, the next you are wondering why everything feels harder than it should. A few habits can keep things manageable when you’re out in the cold:
Dress in layers so your body is not working harder than it needs to.
Take short breaks to warm up during extended time outside.
Drink water even when you do not feel thirsty. Cold air is sneaky that way.
Be mindful of signs like dizziness, unusual fatigue, or feeling more winded than normal. That is your cue to slow it down.
Heat, Hustle, and When to Ease Up
Heart Month lands in February, but warm-weather work brings its own challenges. High heat, full shifts, and heavy lifting can quietly take a toll. Here’s some reminders for when the temperatures climb:
Avoid dehydration by sipping water regularly, not just when you feel overheated.
Fuel your body with regular meals instead of skipping and powering through.
Take shade (and AC) breaks when you can. Your to-do list will still be there.
Just like winter conditions, summer heat affects both people and equipment. Pausing when needed and sticking to safe handling practices helps keep everything and everyone in better shape.
Habits That Add Up
Heart health is less about one big effort and more about the routines you stick with. A short list worth keeping in mind:
Stretch before starting physical labor, particularly after long drives or time in equipment. Your muscles will stay happier, and your day will go smoother.
Get enough rest so your body has time to recover. Fatigue tends to sneak up before it announces itself.
Notice ongoing aches, difficulty breathing, or chest discomfort. That is useful information, not something to brush aside.
The American Heart Association encourages regular health screenings and preventive care as part of staying heart-healthy over time.
Looking Out for Our Neighbors, All Year Long
At CityServiceValcon, safety has always been about more than propane. It is about the people doing the work and the communities we share. We care how the job gets done, not just that it gets done.
If you ever have questions about working safely around propane equipment or just want guidance from a team that understands local weather, your CityServiceValcon team is always here. We will handle the fuel side so you can focus on the work and make it home in one piece.
