Q & A: How to Stay Safe Amid Stretch of Bitter Cold Weather

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Frigid cold temperatures are expected to linger for at least a week around the Washington, D.C., area following the winter storm that produced snow, sleet and freezing rain on Sunday. Current forecast models don't show temperatures rising above freezing until at least Groundhog Day on Feb. 2, with many of the daily lows dipping into single digits.

George Washington University Associate Nursing Professor Asefeh Faraz Covellispoke to GW Today to offer tips and guidance for staying safe in such sustained cold conditions.

Q: What are the biggest health risks people should be aware of when temperatures drop this low?

A: The biggest health risks during cold weather are hypothermia and frostbite. Falls due to icy conditions and overexertion from shoveling snow are other health risks. Finally, carbon monoxide poisoning and fires resulting from improper heating methods are other major health risks.

Q: What practical steps can people take to protect themselves from cold-related illnesses during everyday activities such as commuting, walking across campus or spending time outdoors?

A: Limit time outdoors, if possible, and avoid non-essential travel to stay safe. If you must be outdoors, monitor for signs of hypothermia and/or frostbite. Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion when shoveling snow or walking in deep snow.

Q: What early warning signs of hypothermia or frostbite should people watch for in themselves or others, and when should they seek medical help?

A: Shivering is a sign of heat loss, and taking immediate action to warm up or go indoors is advised. Numbness and pale skin are signs of frostbite and extremities should be warmed right away. Fatigue, slurred speech and confusion are signs of hypothermia and necessitate seeking immediate medical attention.

Q: From a nursing perspective, what does effective cold-weather layering actually look like, and what common mistakes do people make when dressing for extreme cold?

A: Effective cold-weather layering includes several layers of loose, lightweight clothing (such as wool, fleece or polypropylene) for insulation, with a waterproof outer layer. Hats, gloves or mittens, scarves and waterproof boots are also important. Common mistakes are to dress in tight clothes that are not waterproof, leading to wet clothes, and not wearing layers that can be removed in case of wetness or sweating to avoid chills.

Q: How can members of the GW and D.C. community look out for one another during periods of extreme cold?

A: Checking on family and friends to make sure they have heat, food, water and other essential supplies is a good idea. Pass along updates on power outages, weather alerts and local resources. Offer to help run errands, clear snow or provide a ride to a warmer location if they have lost heat.

Asefeh Faraz Covelli is a tenured associate professor in the Family Nurse Practitioner program at the George Washington University School of Nursing. She is a health care workforce researcher interested in nurse practitioner workforce issues, with particular emphasis on the novice nurse practitioner workforce transition into primary care. She is also interested in alternative workforce solutions to improve patient access to primary preventive care.