Winters in different locations can be pretty intense. In January 2019, the temperature reached to ten degrees below zero. In such a temperature, exposed skin (that is, those that aren’t under layers of clothes or thick jackets) can freeze within ten minutes, increasing the risk of hypothermia. Hypothermia can be deadly.
During such days, make sure that you’re prepared. Have a professional check your system of central heating in Salt Lake City or other areas. You will need it in case the temperature drops even further. You will also have greater peace of mind when you know that you have more energy to spare in case of an emergency. Here are the different ways to keep you and your family warm during the coldest days of winter.
Dress in Layers
Do not be content with a simple jacket, no matter how thick and cozy it feels or snug and warm you feel inside. You may be able to withstand the cold, but you cannot see nor feel some of the reactions caused by such weather on your body. Your skin gets damaged, your heart rate slows down, and you may get frostbite, which is very painful. Also, do not forget to protect the commonly-ignored parts of your body. When you are outdoors, wear a thick scarf to cover your neck, a mask for your face, mittens or gloves (make sure that they are thick enough), and a sturdy pair of boots. But as much as possible, if it is not necessary, don’t go outdoors. Stay wherever there is a good source of heat.
Call the Doctor
Do this step as soon as you have frostbite or another winter-related injury. You might not know how to “rewarm” frostbitten fingers, toes, or other body parts, or you might cause more considerable pain for yourself. Call immediate medical attention and follow the doctor’s advice. On the way to the hospital or while waiting for the doctor to arrive, crank up the heating system.
Also, call the doctor when symptoms of hypothermia appear, such as shivering, a weak pulse, stuttering, bright and red skin, memory loss, or loss of consciousness. The minutes you have with hypothermia can be very crucial for your health and safety.
The children and elderly whose immune systems are not as strong might be more prone to hypothermia or any illness related to cold temperature. They must be given special consideration, especially since their tolerance for the cold is generally weaker. Pets, too, are at risk, even if they are the type to hibernate in the wild or they have thick furs like samoyed dogs and huskies. They are domesticated, which means that they cannot survive on their own and that their instincts have been modified. You, no matter how healthy you may seem or able to withstand the cold, can be at risk of hypothermia if you are not careful.
Winter can be intense. But to be able to see the lovely spring that always promises to come after, you must be prepared at all times.
