Working in a chilly environment can be risky in addition to being uncomfortable. Cold outdoor weather raises serious concerns about frostbite, numbness, dehydration, and hypothermia. This winter, if you’re working outside, be cautious and stay safe.
- Only go where you have to go. You shouldn’t travel unless it is absolutely necessary when it is extremely cold. Remaining indoors will lessen your chance of developing frostbite or taking a chance on shaky road conditions. If you must leave the house in the winter, make sure to review safe driving techniques. Taking the bus or train? While you wait at the stop, keep moving to stay warm.
- Dress warmly. Wear several layers of loose-fitting clothing if you must leave the house. Your body heat can be trapped in the space between each sweater and coat, helping to keep you warm. Wearing wool-made clothing is also beneficial because it can retain more heat than cotton-made clothing. Polypropylene, a synthetic material, has the ability to both wick moisture away and retain heat.
- Keep an eye out for hypothermia and frostbite symptoms. Children, the elderly, and those who have circulation issues are among those who are more prone to the common cold than others.In particular during cold or snowy weather, check on older relatives and neighbors to make sure they are warm enough and have enough food. They could need food, medicines, and other supplies but may not feel safe going outside to shop.Your vulnerability to the common cold will increase if you use nicotine, alcohol, or certain drugs.
- Make sure to bring a cold weather safety kit if you’re travelling by car. Candles, matches, and emergency blankets should all be included in a cold weather pack. For a while, a candle burning inside a car might be enough heat to prevent hypothermia. Recognize the risks of exposure and take these precautions to stay safe.
Hypothermia
A dip in body temperature might occur if you are exposed too cold for an extended period of time. There may be shivering, disorientation, and lack of muscle control (such as trouble walking). The illness can worsen to the point that the victim loses consciousness or the shivering ceases. Cardiac arrest could happen.
Steps to take:
- Get medical help right away.
- Avoid rough handling, especially if the person is unconscious, and lay the person down.
- Bring the person inside.
- Take off wet garments gently.
- Utilizing the available heat sources, slowly and gradually warm the person.
Frostbite
A more serious condition in which the skin and underlying tissue (fat, muscle, bone) are both frozen. The skin appears white and waxy, and it is rough to the touch. There is no sensation; the area is numb or tingling.
What you should do:
- Frostbite is a dangerous condition that can lead to amputation. Seek medical attention.
- Do not rub or massage the affected region.
- Warm the space only if you know it will stay warm.
- Warm the region gradually, either with body heat or with warm water (40°C to 42°C). Direct heat, which can burn the skin, should be avoided.
BOTTOM LINE:
Create a cold weather safety plan ahead of time to ensure that safety concerns are handled when it is really cold or the wind chill is significant.
