Huron County – The Huron County Health Unit has some tips for people to stay safe during severe cold weather.
“It’s important to protect yourself and your family if you are going to be outside or travelling”, says Public Health Nurse Donna Parsons.
Parsons suggests the following tips during extreme cold weather:
· Monitor the forecast so you know what to expect in terms of cold temperatures and storm warnings.
· Limit time outside… listen to your body and warm up when needed.
· When shovelling snow watch for signs of exertion or injury.
· Monitor for symptoms of frostbite or hypothermia. With frostbite skin may feel painful or numb and may be white or greyish in colour. Hypothermia, or a low body temperature may have symptoms such as shivering, drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech or memory loss.
· If you are outside dress warmly and in layers. Winter boots, hats and mittens are important. Cover as much skin as possible when the wind chill is high.
· Drink warm fluids to maintain body temperature.
· When travelling let someone know to expect you, don’t travel alone if possible.
· Take a car kit with you. Include blankets, phone and car charger, shovel, booster cables, candle and matches, flashlight and batteries, water and snacks.
· Don’t forget to take pets in from the cold.
· Clear snow away from house and car vents to prevent carbon monoxide from building up in your house or car.
Check out Environment Canada for weather forecasts and more information about extreme cold weather http://weather.gc.ca.
