Dear Kalee,
What are the best ways to help keep me and my family safe from the cold weather this winter? Thank you, I'm Already Cold
Dear I'm Cold,
Brrr, it is getting cold already. I know we are all anxious for the warm weather to return, but we must get through this winter season first. Winter is a time of year where our safety can be threatened due to harsh temperatures. Just like that in summer with extreme warm temperatures, extreme cold temperatures can be just as dangerous.
Here are some tips below to help you enjoy the outside winter fun and keep you safe:
PREVENTION:
- Dress warm and in layers.
- Wear flat, non-slippery boots or shoes and watch for ice patches.
- Avoid getting wet, as wetness can cause the body to become cold faster.
- Cover as much as your body as possible, wearing hat, mittens, gloves, scarves, etc.
- Don't over exert yourself in the cold, as it can increase strain on your heart. Take it slow.
- Keep extra blankets or warm clothes in your car.
- Be sure you have a full tank of gas before traveling.
- Alert any family or friends if you will be doing activities outside to your whereabouts.
- Monitor the weather and avoid traveling in severe weather.
- Keep a jug of salt in your trunk to help avoid slipping on ice.
- Be sure you have your carbon monoxide detectors in place and are functioning.
- Be sure to have flashlights charges or batteries on hand – avoid candle use.
- Be sure to have your chimney checked before using for the first time.
- Avoid placing a space heater in confined spaces.
SEEK CARE EMERGENCY CARE IF:
- Prolonged exposure to the elements causing discoloration or feeling in areas of your body, such as hands or feet.
- Confused, or sluggish thought processes due to lower body temperature.
- Chest pain or shortness of breath when shoveling, snowplowing, or other outdoor chores.
Stay warm and be safe this winter! Don't hesitate to call the clinic with any questions. We can be reached at (262) 214-1101.
Sincerely,
Dr. Kalee Cambray, DNP, APNP, RN, AGACNP-BC, FNP-C
Clinic Phone: (262) 214-1101, 17000 W North Ave. Ste 100E, Brookfield, WI 53005
Resources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018). Outdoor safety during a winter storm. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/duringstorm/outdoorsafety.html
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2018). Indoor safety during a winter storm. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/duringstorm/indoorsafety.html