Extreme cold a serious health risk for unprotected

Temperatures dropping below freezing can cause more than just the shivers. Icy weather can also pose serious health risks for those who are vulnerable or who don’t take proper precautions.

During our Northern BC winters, residents need to ensure they are adequately protected against the elements. The elderly can be especially at risk due to increased opportunities for falls, as well as isolation in the home.

Common sense is important in guarding against the dangers of harsh winter conditions.

Protection in the cold:

• Wear a properly insulated hat to keep warm – most body heat loss occurs from the head.

• Drink lots of water to prevent dehydration, which can occur just as easily in cold weather as in hot.

• Traveling out of town by vehicle? Take along emergency gear such as blankets, extra mitts and boots, and jumper cables.

• Remember that alcohol and cold weather don’t mix. Alcohol dilates blood vessels, increasing heat loss from unprotected areas and increasing the risk of cold injury.

Preventing frostbite:

• Prevent prolonged exposure outside. The lower the temperature, the greater the risk of frostbite and/or hypothermia, especially when cold winds are present.

• Areas commonly affected by frostbite include fingers, toes, ears, chin, cheeks and nose (often left uncovered). Dress adequately, including gloves, scarves, hat and insulated waterproof boots.

• Wear layers of clothing to increase insulation against the cold.

• Change out of wet clothes immediately.

Be a good neighbor:

• Keep an eye out for neighbours needing a hand with icy sidewalks or snowy driveways.

• Check in on isolated seniors who may need extra assistance during chilly weather.

Other cold-weather considerations:

• Take care when shovelling snow to avoid muscle injuries, or heart attack -- especially if you don't exercise regularly or have chronic heart or lung conditions
• Be safe indoors! Inappropriate use, or over-use, of certain heating appliances could increase the risk of everything from indoor air-pollution (carbon monoxide poisoning) to fire, explosion and/or electrocution
• Wash your hands! Viral and bacterial infections are common during cold, dry weather. Frequent handwashing is one of the best ways to protect yourself from becoming ill

For more information on cold weather injuries such as frostbite or any other health-related issues, residents can call HealthLink BC toll- free at 8-1-1, go online at www.healthlinkbc.ca or TTY at 7-1-1 for people who are speech or hearing-impaired. Registered nurses at HealthLink BC can provide confidential non-emergency health advice and information, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Translation services are available in 130 languages.