Frostbite or hypothermia are a serious threat when temperatures dip below the freezing mark. Staying safe in cold weather is important because exposure to cold can cause injury or serious illness, according to the American Red Cross.
Low temperatures are only
Frostbite or hypothermia are a serious threat when temperatures dip below the freezing mark. Staying safe in cold weather is important because exposure to cold can cause injury or serious illness, according to the American Red Cross.
Low temperatures are only one factor that could create the possibility of injury or illness. Others are physical activity, clothing, wind, humidity, conditions and a individual's age and health.
Appropriate dress is the top requirement when going outdoors even when the air temperature is above freezing as wind speed can create dangerously cold conditions, according to the Red Cross
Symptoms that hypothermia can be a serious medical condition are confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and severe shivering. Immediate medical attention is needed if these symptoms are present.
Immediate medical attention also is needed if these frostbite warming signs are present: gray, white or yellow skin discoloration, numbness, and waxy feeling skin.
Among the tips suggested by the Red Cross for surviving bitter cold weather are:
- Avoid being outside in the coldest part of the day or for extended periods of time in extreme cold weather.
- Dress in layers to be able to adjust to changing weather; avoid overdressing or overexertion.
- Wear a hat, preferably one that covers the ears, to avoid loss of body heat through the head.
- Mittens provide more warm to hands than gloves.
- Wear waterproof, insulated boots
- Take frequent breaks and stay hydrated
- Avoid drinking caffeine or alcohol if hypothermia or frostbite is suspected.