14
JAN/FEB 2014
and dead. Left unchecked, there
will be a decrease in sensation
until it is completely lost.
Winter Safety Reminders
Tips for shoveling and treating frostbite
and hypothermia
by Angela S. Hoover, Staff Writer
Love it or hate it, cold weather
is here. And with it comes extra
precautions to consider when
shoveling snow, driving or just
getting out and about.
Snow Shoveling
It’s not only a necessary task, it’s a
great workout. But don’t let it put
you out. Anyone older than 40
or with a history of heart trouble
should use extreme caution while
shoveling snow. Dress with extra
care to keep your hands and feet
warm and dry. Warm up and
stretch before beginning; stretch
again when you’re done. Go
slowly and take breaks. If possible,
only shovel fresh snow since wet,
packed snow is more difficult.
Pick up only small amounts.
Remember to use your legs, not
your back. Bend and “sit” into the
movement while keeping your
back straight. Don’t work to the
point of exhaustion. Stop immediately if your chest feels tight,
regardless of your age or health.
Frostbite
At the first sign of frostbite, get to
a warm place and seek medical attention. Softly handle the affected
area; never rub it. If possible,
slowly warm it up by soaking it in
lukewarm water (100-105 degrees
Fahrenheit) until it appears red
and feels warm. Do not expose it
directly or close to a fire. If fingers
or toes are affected, place dry, sterile gauze between them to keep
them separated. Avoid breaking
blisters. Do not allow the affected
area to refreeze.
Hypothermia
Frostbite is when skin and extremities freeze. The nose, cheeks,
fingers and toes are most commonly affected. Frostbite starts
with burning, numbness, tingling,
itching or cold sensations in the
affected areas. The skin appears
white, gray, yellow or blue and is
cold to the touch. The area is hard
and may even appear blackened
Hypothermia occurs when the
body loses heat faster than it
can produce it. This abnormally
low body temperature can make
a person sleepy, confused and
clumsy. It may