Severe Cold Weather

Cold Weather Precautions

Monitor your food intake, physical output and maintain a regular diet to help your body better handle the severe weather conditions.

• Hydrate - Drinks with caffeine, sugar and alcohol take longer for your body to absorb and do not hydrate as well. Water is usually the best choice.
• People should be aware of the amount and intensity of their physical activity, both indoors and out. Avoid overexertion. Cold weather puts additional strain on the body, especially the heart.
• If you have to go outside, wear appropriate clothing that will adequately insulate you from the cold and provide protection from the wind.
• Older adults, those in fragile health, and smaller children can be more affected by the cold than the average adult.
• Check on loved ones and neighbours, especially those in fragile health, preferably by telephone.
• Never leave children or pets in vehicles. Temperatures in vehicles can drop rapidly.
• Pets can be greatly affected by the cold and should not be exposed longer than they have to be.
• Large animals need to be kept out of the wind and have a dry place to lay down. Water supplies should be checked to avoid freezing and diets should be adjusted to increase energy content by 5%.
• Check heating units. Poorly;y operating or damaged heating units can release carbon monoxide gas. Test carbon monoxide detectors for proper operation and battery life.
• Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colourless, tasteless gas that can kill. Never use generators, grills, camp stoves, or other gasoline or charcoal-burning devices inside your home, basement, garage or near a window. Also make sure that you have installed a carbon monoxide detector in your home to alert you and your family to this "silent killer".

FROSTBITE

FROSTBITE occurs in stages; from tissue numbness to the actual freezing of body tissue. It usually strikes the fingers, toes, ears and nose first. Skin colour will change, affected areas will go numb and possibly feel frozen on the surface. DO NOT SQUEEZE OR RUB FROSTBITTEN TISSUES. This is a serious condition and you should seek immediate medical assistance to treat frostbite.

HYPOTHERMIA

 
HYPOTHERMIA is the general cooling of the whole body over time reflected in a reduced core body temperature; the body is not able to keep itself warm.. Elderly adults and the frail of health are highly susceptible to hypothermia. Signs and symptoms include uncontrollable shivering, feeling of numbness, drowsiness, exhaustion, confusion, memory lapses, slow or slurred speech, slow breathing and pulse rates, failing eyesight, poor coordination and possible unconsciousness. If your are experiencing these symptoms, you should consult a medical professional for emergency treatment. hypothermia is a life threatening condition.