Protect Yourself During Cold Temperatures
Extreme cold happens when temperatures drop below the average for that time of year. Exposure to cold temperatures can cause serious and sometimes even life-threatening health problems.
Who is at risk?
During extremely cold weather, everyone is at risk. However, some groups are more vulnerable than others:
- children and infants
- seniors
- homeless people
- outdoor workers
- skiers
- ice skaters
- people living in poorly insulated homes
- people living in homes without power
- people with asthma
What are the health effects of extreme cold?
Frostbite
- Frostbite usually affects the hands, legs, and fingers.
- It can cause numbness, pain, swelling and blistering.
- If you think frostbite has set in, don’t rub or massage the area. Instead, warm up the area slowly with warm compresses or your own body.
- If toes or feet are frostbitten, try not to walk on them.
Hypothermia
- Hypothermia occurs when the body’s normal temperature is less than 35°C.
- Symptoms may include:
- shivering
- confusion
- weakness
- mumbling
- low energy
- pale skin colour
- If you think someone has hypothermia, remove their wet clothing and bring them to a warm place. Warm the person gradually with several layers of blankets.
If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
What can you do?
- Cover exposed skin, which can become frostbitten in 30 seconds.
- Wear a hat (you can lose up to 40% of your body heat through your head).
- Wear gloves.
- Wear a scarf to protect the chin, lips and cheeks.
- Keep children indoors if the temperature falls below –25°C, or if the wind chill is –28°C or greater.
- Drink warm fluids, avoiding caffeinated or alcoholised beverages.
- Wear clothes in layers.
- Find shelter from the wind to reduce wind exposure.
- Listen to the weather forecast and plan ahead! If there is an extreme cold or wind chill warning, do what you can to stay inside.
Sources:
Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit
Canadian Paediatric Society
