It is important to take protective measures during times of cold weather.
If you like to ski, snowshoe or snowmobile, you should keep in mind that wind chills can be a problem for exposed skin even in weather that isn’t frigid.
Here are some suggestions for cold weather wear. If you have kids, make sure they’re ready for walking to school or recess in the cold. Wear:
Potential cold weather risks
Frostbite or hypothermia can occur if you’re not prepared.
What’s frostbite?
Frostbite is an injury caused by freezing body tissue. Frostbite can cause permanent damage and can result in amputation in the worst cases. The nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers and toes are the most vulnerable.
What are the signs of frostbite?
What’s hypothermia?
Hypothermia happens when your body temperature drops due to exposure to cold or being cold and wet. You lose body heat faster than you can produce it. It can gradually make you sleepy, confused and clumsy. Since it can sneak up on you, you may not even realize it’s happening.
If the body temperature drops below 95 degrees, get immediate professional medical care.
Anyone can get hypothermia. Babies and old people are at higher risk. Babies can get hypothermia from sleeping in a cold room. People who drink too much or use illicit drugs are also at higher risk.
What are the signs of hypothermia?
For adults:
For infants:
What should I do if someone has frostbite or hypothermia?
Call a health care professional immediately. If medical care is not immediately available:
The best plan is prevention, but if you suspect someone has frostbite or hypothermia, see a health care professional right way.
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