Winter Weather Awareness Week/Prepare For Extreme Cold

Thursday, November 18th, 2021 -- 10:27 AM

This week is Winter Weather Awareness week and preparing for extreme cold weather and recognizing the signs of hypothermia are crucial. 

WQOW-TV reports that after someone has been exposed to extremely cold temperatures and wind chills, pay special attention to any changes in their behavior compared to normal. Especially watch for confusion, shivering. Someone suffering from hypothermia may also have difficulty speaking, feel sleepy, and have stiff muscles. 

If you suspect yourself or someone else is suffering from hypothermia, call 9-1-1 or get them to a hospital as it is a medical emergency. Remove any wet clothes and try to warm the person up using electric blanket or skin to skin contact under loose blankets. Warm drinks can help, too, but do not give person alcohol.   

To prevent hypothermia in the first place, make sure to dress in dry layers. Especially cover extremities like hands/fingers, feet/toes, and head/ears.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.