Bundle Up This Winter!

Ohio winters can bring low temperatures and a variety of precipitation - including lake effect snow in parts of Ohio.

"The cold has a quiet way of overwhelming the body," said Dr. Mary DiOrio, medical director for the Ohio Department of Health. "You might not know things like hypothermia and frost bite are happening until it's too late."

That is why it's important to layer up before heading out! We have some tips to help you build your outfit so you can maintain function of your limbs and not look like Randy in "A Christmas Story!"

• Before you layer too much, check your coat, as it may have multiple layers built in.
• Think about your base layer. What's worse than being cold? Being cold and wet. Think about clothing that will wick sweat away from your skin.
• Your middle layer is for trapping heat! Think about the temperature and the windchill when picking your middle layer. Fleece is good for this layer, but you can also use a puffy coat. For your legs, think about adding some fleece-lined pants or a pair of leggings for added warmth.
• The outer layer is your shell. These are used to help keep you dry from the outside in. Look for wind-proof or water-resistant coats.
• Don't forget the hat, mittens, warm socks, and water-resistant or waterproof, insulated boots!

Please note: If your children are in a car seat of any kind, do not buckle them in with their thick coat on. Choose lightweight fleece layers instead of puffy materials to ensure a snug-fitting harness and then cover them with a coat or a blanket for more warmth.

Interested in how the cold affects the body and signs to watch for? Keep reading!

Humans are not built to be Frosty. When you're 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. While hypothermia and frostbite are the most common cold-related illnesses, the cold can also increase your risk of heart attack.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people most at risk for hypothermia include older adults without adequate food, clothing, or heating; babies sleeping in cold bedrooms; people who are outdoors for long periods; and people who drink alcohol or use drugs.

Signs and symptoms of hypothermia include:

• Shivering.
• Exhaustion or feeling tired.
• Confusion.
• Fumbling hands.
• Memory loss.
• Slurred speech.
• Drowsiness.
• For babies, bright red or cold skin and low energy.

How quickly frostbite develops depends on both temperature and wind chill, and in certain conditions, it can even happen to skin covered by clothing. A large risk is for uncovered skin, as frost bite can happen within minutes. Early signs include redness or pain in the affected area, which can progress to skin turning white or gray-yellow, feeling firm, hard, or waxy, and becoming numb.

If you notice signs of hypothermia or frostbite on yourself or someone else, seek medical attention immediately. If immediate care isn't available, follow these guidelines:

For hypothermia:

• Get the individual into a warm room as quickly as possible.
• Remove any wet clothing.
• Warm the center of the person's body under dry blankets. Focus on the chest, neck, head, and groin areas.
• Use warm, non-alcoholic drinks to help increase the person's body temperature.

After their temperature has risen, keep the person dry and wrap their body in a warm blanket, then get them medical attention as quickly as possible.

For frostbite:

• Get the individual into a warm room as quickly as possible.
• Don't rub or massage the frostbitten area, nor walk on feet or toes that show signs of frostbite damage, as this can increase the damage.
• Place the affected areas in warm water, not hot, if available, or warm the areas using body heat.

Treatment for frostbite is also necessary and should be treated by a healthcare provider.

So bundle up, be mindful of how long you're outside, and enjoy a healthy and safe Ohio winter!

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