Dressing for the Weather

Dressing appropriately for cold temperatures is important to keep you and your family safe. If you do not have the clothes and boots you need to stay warm, do not go out when the temperatures are very low.

• A hat
• A scarf or knit mask to cover the face and mouth
• Sleeves that are snug at the wrist
• Mittens (they are warmer than gloves)
• Several layers of loose-fitting clothing
•  Water-resistant coat and boots

Frostbite & Hypothermia

Hypothermia is an unusually low body temperature. A body temperature below 95° Fahrenheit (35° Celsius) is considered an emergency. 

Signs

• Shivering
• Exhaustion
• Confusion 
• Clumsiness 
• Memory loss
• Slurred speech or drowsiness

Actions

• Go to a warm room
• Warm the core of your body first - chest, neck, head and groin 
• Stay dry and wrapped in warm blankets, including your head and neck
• Stay hydrated with warm drinks. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. 
• If severe, call 911

Frostbite causes loss of feeling and color around the face, fingers, and toes. In severe cases, frost bite can lead to loss of fingers, toes, and skin on the face. 

Signs

• Numbness
• White, grayish-yellow or waxy skin 
• Firm/hard skin

Actions

• Go to a warm room
• Soak in warm water 
• Use body heat to warm up. Do not massage or apply heat pad.  
• If severe, call 911

Wind Chill

When the wind is blowing the air will feel even colder! The wind blows the warmth away from your body, which can make your colder faster and make the conditions outside more dangerous. On days with a low wind chill, it is extra important to wear winter clothing like scarves and gloves to protect your extremities. An extra pair of socks won't hurt either!

Winter and your Vehicles

• Ensure you have a full tank of gas in your vehicle. Keep at least a half a tank of gas in your car to prevent fuel lines from freezing.
• Do not warm your vehicle up in an enclosed area, such as your garage, to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Check your battery, coolant, and tires. 
• Have jumper cables ready.
• Pack a blanket if you must travel during extremely cold weather. 
• Take precautions when driving during cold weather. Hard-packed snow on roads will begin to melt under direct sunlight & then freeze when the temperature drops.
• Note that due to extreme temperatures, salt becomes ineffective.