Tips to keep warm and safe when the temperatures, wind chills get extreme

KENOSHA COUNTY (WITI) -- The Kenosha County Division of Health issued on Tuesday, January 6th, tips for keeping warm and safe during extreme weather. Officials say serious health problems can result from prolonged exposure to the cold.

HYPOTHERMIA

When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced. Prolonged exposure to cold will eventually use up your body’s stored energy. The result is hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature.

Warning signs of hypothermia

Adults:

Infants:

What to Do

If you notice any of these signs, take the person’s temperature. If it is below 95°F, the situation is an emergency -- get medical attention immediately.

FROSTBITE

Frostbite is an injury to the body that is caused by freezing. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and color in affected areas. It most often affects the nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, or toes. Frostbite can permanently damage the body. The risk of frostbite is increased in people with reduced blood circulation and among people who are not dressed properly for extremely cold temperatures.

Recognizing Frostbite

At the first signs of redness or pain in any skin area, get out of the cold or protect any exposed skin—frostbite may be beginning. Any of the following signs may indicate frostbite:

A victim is often unaware of frostbite until someone else points it out because the frozen tissues are numb.

What to Do

If you detect symptoms of frostbite, seek medical care. Because frostbite and hypothermia both result from exposure, first determine whether the victim also shows signs of hypothermia, as described previously. Hypothermia is a more serious medical condition and requires emergency medical assistance.

TAKING PREVENTIVE ACTION

Have furnaces checked annually for efficient and safe operation before the heating season arrives. Check on elderly relatives, friends and neighbors. Monitor the rooms where infants sleep or spend periods of time. When spending time outdoors, adults and children should dress warmly and stay dry. Layer clothing, preferably wind resistant, to reduce loss of body-heat caused by the wind. Tell relatives and friends where you are going and when you expect to return. Do not ignore shivering. It's an important first sign that the body is losing heat. Persistent shivering is a signal to return indoors.

TIPS TO SURVIVE THE COLD

For more information or, you're urged to call the Kenosha County Division of Health at 262-605- 6700, 800-472-8008, or visit kenoshacounty.org.