Health Tips For The Cold Snap
Monday, February 4, 2008 | | |Some tips for both at home and when you're outdoors include the following:
Protection inside:
- Watch for fire hazards due to heating appliance overloads and excessive electrical use;
- Be aware of carbon monoxide poisoning risks due to poorly-vented heating appliances or staying inside idling cars
- Avoid the use of un-vented propane-type radiant space heaters indoors.
Out in the cold:
- Dress well for the weather. Wear layers of clothing to provide enough heat protection and don't under-estimate frostbite conditions;
- Wear a properly insulated hat to help keep yourself warm as most heat lost from the body occurs from the head;
- Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration: moisture loss occurs just as easily in cold weather as in hot; and
- Take along emergency gear such as blankets when traveling out of town by vehicle.
Be a good neighbour:
- Help out elderly neighbours who could use a hand with icy sidewalks or snowy driveways; and
- Check in on isolated seniors who may need extra help during chilly weather.