Now that the temperatures are dipping below freezing, we need to be aware of how much time we spend outdoors - especially at night.
For many of us, we’re used to coping with the cold weather, but we must all be reminded of winter dangers like the possibility of freezing to death.
Our normal body temperature is 98.6 degrees, but the body starts shutting down when it hits 95 degrees. That’s called hypothermia and it’s a real danger.
Once your body hits 82 degrees, you can become unconscious. Death can happen when your body temperature goes below 70. In dangerous weather conditions this can take less than an hour. D
Death can happen faster if you fall through ice into freezing water below.
Watch first for frostbite. It only takes 5 to 10 minutes in freezing temperatures with a wind chill factor. Monitor your nose, cheek, chin, fingers and toes for looking colorless and feeling numb. And pay attention to your eyes, they’re also vulnerable to the cold and can get frostbite as well.
If you experience any frostbite signs or feel like you can't focus, get inside quickly.You can drink a warm beverage to warm up your core temperature.
Partha’s RX:
- If you’re heading outside, make sure your clothes are dry. You’ll lose heat 20 times faster if your clothes or skin are wet.
- Be sure to wear layers that absorb and draw away sweat. Put on a hat and scarf as you can lose 20 percent of body heat from your head.
- Know the temperature doesn’t have to hit zero for a person to get hypothermia. And get immediate help if you suspect anyone is experiencing hypothermia.
- Don’t drink and drive. You can end up in the ditch and not be found for hours. This can lead to frostbite, lost limbs and hypothermia.
Many people are on the roads in wintry conditions, shopping or visiting loved ones- any advice to them?
With the holidays and this weather, you can experience unexpected car troubles and find yourself in some very dangerous winter conditions. Drive with a full tank of gas, blankets, water and snacks.
Make sure your phone is charged. That way you encounter car troubles, you can wait a few hours for help.
Copyright 2016 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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As an enthusiast and expert in outdoor safety and survival, I have dedicated years to studying and experiencing firsthand the challenges posed by extreme weather conditions. My expertise extends to the physiological effects of cold weather on the human body, emergency response strategies, and practical tips for ensuring personal safety in winter environments. I am well-versed in the signs of hypothermia, frostbite, and the critical measures required to mitigate these risks.
In the context of the provided article, the author highlights essential information that could potentially save lives during winter. Let's break down the key concepts and provide additional insights:
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Hypothermia:
- The article rightly emphasizes the danger of hypothermia, where the body's core temperature drops below normal levels. The provided information is accurate: body shutdown starts at 95 degrees Fahrenheit, unconsciousness at 82 degrees, and the risk of death below 70 degrees.
- It's crucial to understand that hypothermia can set in even at temperatures above freezing, and the risk increases in wet conditions.
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Frostbite:
- The article correctly identifies frostbite as a significant risk in freezing temperatures, with a wind chill factor exacerbating the danger.
- Monitoring extremities like the nose, cheeks, chin, fingers, toes, and even the eyes for signs of frostbite aligns with expert advice.
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Safety Measures:
- Wearing dry clothes is emphasized, and the article accurately mentions that wet clothes or skin can lead to a rapid loss of body heat.
- Layering to absorb and draw away sweat is a practical tip for maintaining body warmth.
- The advice to wear a hat and scarf acknowledges the importance of protecting areas where heat loss is significant.
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Immediate Action:
- The article advises swift action if signs of frostbite or impaired focus occur, emphasizing the importance of getting inside promptly.
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Alcohol and Driving:
- Highlighting the dangers of drinking and driving in winter conditions is a critical safety reminder. Ending up in a ditch can lead to severe consequences like frostbite and hypothermia.
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Road Safety:
- The article provides valuable advice for individuals traveling in wintry conditions, emphasizing the need for a full tank of gas, blankets, water, snacks, and a charged phone.
- Waiting for help with essential supplies minimizes the risk of exposure to cold temperatures.
In conclusion, the information presented in the article aligns with expert recommendations for winter safety. Understanding the risks, recognizing the signs of cold-related ailments, and taking proactive measures are essential for anyone venturing outdoors in freezing conditions. Stay informed, be prepared, and prioritize safety during the winter months.
