Why This Matters
Even a short time spent outdoors in extremely cold temperatures can cause frostbite or hypothermia. In times of severe cold, self-defense can save your life.
An Extreme Cold Warning: What Is It?
An Extreme Cold Warning is issued when temperatures or wind chills hit dangerously high levels that pose serious health risks. Typically, these alerts are triggered by the following:
- Wind chills of at least -30°C (-22°F)
- Abrupt and extended temperature decreases
- Conditions at high risk for hypothermia and frostbite
Risks Associated with Severe Cold
Hypothermia: When the body temperature falls too low, it can cause confusion, uncontrollable shivering, and in extreme situations, unconsciousness or death.
Frostbite: The skin and underlying tissues freeze, resulting in numbness, pain, and possibly permanent damage. Black ice and freezing roads: Because of the slick conditions, there is a higher chance of mishaps and falls.
How to Remain Safe in Severe Cold
1. Wear Cold-Related Clothes
Layer Up: Wear insulated boots, gloves, a hat, a windproof jacket, and thermal apparel.
Protect Exposed Skin: In extremely cold temperatures, frostbite can happen in a matter of minutes.
Use Fabrics That Wick Away Moisture. Cotton retains moisture and quickly cools the body.
2. Reduce Your Exposure to the Outdoors
Remain Indoors: If at all possible, stay inside during extremely cold weather.
Prevent Overexertion: In cold weather, intense physical activity or shoveling snow can strain your heart.
Inspect Vulnerable People. Particularly susceptible to cold-related illnesses are young children, the elderly, and pets.
3. Be Ready for Any Emergency
- Keep an emergency kit to stock up on blankets, food, water, flashlights, and a radio that runs on batteries. To prevent Frozen pipes, let them drip a little.
- Maintain a Backup Heat Source: Due to the possibility of carbon monoxide, use a generator safely during a power outage rather than bringing it inside.
Protecting Yourself from Hypothermia and Frostbite
Symptoms of Frostbite
- The feeling of numbness or tingling in the nose, ears, toes, or fingers.
- Skin becomes waxy, gray, or white.
- In extreme situations, hard or blistering skin.
Steps to Take: Get to a warm location immediately and soak the afflicted areas in warm water, not hot. Avoid massaging the skin.
The symptoms of hypothermia
- Severe chills (early stage)
- Confusing speech and misunderstanding
- Slow breathing or a weak pulse (in severe cases)
Steps: Go inside, remove your damp clothes, and cover yourself with cozy blankets. Seek medical help immediately if symptoms worsen.
Final Safety Tips
- Check Weather Updates: Stay informed about extreme cold warnings in your area.
- Protect Pets: Bring them indoors and provide shelter if they must stay outside.
- Stay Safe While Driving: Keep an emergency kit in your car with blankets, water, and a flashlight.
Conclusion
Extreme cold can be deadly if precautions aren’t taken. You can stay safe during freezing temperatures by dressing properly, staying informed, and preparing for emergencies. Stay warm, stay safe, and help others prepare for harsh winter conditions!
