With the recent cold spell southern Alberta experienced in the month of December and partly into January, as -45 with the wind chill and strong winds are a harsh reminder of how important it is to be prepared for the elements.

Hypothermia is when the body’s core temperature goes below 35 degrees Celsius (apprx. 95 fahrenheit). The body’s normal body temperature is 37°C (apprx 98°F). In the extreme cold, frostbite can also happen when a part of the body freezes.

As noted by Canada.com, severe frostbite does cause long-lasting bodily damage. Smokers and people with diabetes, or other circulatory problems have a higher risk of getting frostbite.

The best way to avoid being harmed by the cold is to know ahead of time what you’re dealing with.

“[Know] the elements,” says Ward Edley, who works with the city of Lethbridge’s fire department. “The wind chill plays a huge factor, [especially] with exposed skin.”

Residents of Lethbridge know all too well what strong winds feel like, as we live with them on a regular basis. As Edley points out, though, we must continue to take them seriously, as they can make temperatures of -18 feel more like -30 or lower.

If you are out in the elements for an extended period of time, and you stop shivering, or you start losing dexterity, or start feeling sleepy, you’re experiencing the start of Hypothermia, which can be fatal.

“Early signs and symptoms [include] slower responsive rates, or you start rubbing your feet, arms, or hands,” says Edley. “Keep your head warm, [your feet], your armpits, chest, [and even] your groin. These are places heat escapes from your body quickly.”

If you or someone you know is suffering from Hypothermia, Edley tells people to not drink hot liquids, as the person needs to gradually warm themselves. He also says that drinking alcohol and then venturing out into the cold is not a good idea, as causes the body’s core temperature to lower faster.

As for winter driving, Edley has a few tips on that as well.

“The AMA recommends having a basic first aid kit and thermal blankets,” says Edley. “Get winter tires, as they grip the road better, and know the ice, find out if [road conditions] are safe. The resource are there [to find out].”

So, to anyone who thinks they’ll be fine, or that they’ll only be out in the cold for a few minutes, take a moment to really think before you head out, as taking the extra few seconds to bundle up properly may very well save your life.

Originally posted 2009-02-06 17:49:35. Republished by Blog Post Promoter

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