Cold Weather Safety Tips
Prevent Problems
- Limit exposure to cold, especially if it is windy or humid.
- Be careful if you are older, overweight, have allergies or poor circulation.
- Be careful if you smoke, drink or take medication.
- Do not smoke or drink alcohol before going into the cold.
Wear Layers of Loose Dry Clothing
- Cotton or wool under layers.
- Waterproof top layer.
- Be sure to cover head, hands, feet and face.
- Dry or change wet clothing immediately.
- Keep moving in the cold.
- Take breaks in warm areas.
- Move to a warm area if you feel very cold or numb.
- Drink warm nonalcoholic beverages.
Know the Symptoms of Frostbite
- Feeling uncomfortably cold.
- Feeling numb.
- Feeling tingling, aching or brief pain.
- Skin turning reddish or violet black.
- Skin blisters.
- Unconsciousness.
Act Quickly if Frostbite Strikes
- Do not rub body part or apply hot water bottles.
- Do not go near a hot stove.
- Do not break blisters.
- Warm frozen body parts quickly with sheets or blankets or warm (not hot) water.
- Exercise warmed body part (do not walk on feet).
- Get medical attention if necessary.
- Elevate frozen body part and cover with sterile cloths before moving.
Know Symptoms of Hypothermia
- Feeling cold
- Pain in extremities
- Shivering
- Numbness and/or stiffness
- Poor coordination
- Drowsiness
- Slow or irregular breathing of heart rate
- Slurred speech
- Cool skin
- Puffy face
- Confusion
- Apathy
Act Quickly if Hypothermia Strikes
- Call for medical assistance.
- Give artificial respiration if needed.
- Move into a warm area.
- Get out of frozen wet clothes.
- Bundle in warm clothes or blankets.
- Drink something warm (no alcohol) if conscious.