December 18, 2008

Cold Weather Tips

With the weather forecasting snow, the Nassau County Department of Health reminds residents that they can remain more comfortable and safe from the cold by following these suggestions:

• Dress with several layers of light clothing rather than one heavy garment.  Trapped air acts as a body insulator and allows the body to retain its heat.  Wear wool sweaters, long underwear and gloves.  Wrap up in a blanket, if necessary.

• Cover the head and ears with a hat or scarf since much heat-carrying blood flows through the many blood vessels of the scalp and ears and an uncovered head radiates heat rapidly.

• Stay dry.  Body heat is lost through damp clothing by evaporation.

• Drink warm liquids and eat.  Food is the fuel for the body.

• Do not drink alcoholic beverages since alcohol tends to dilate blood vessels, increasing the flow of blood through the skin and, thereby, losing internal body heat.

• Take particular care with young children, senior citizens and persons whose natural body responses to cold are inhibited as a result of certain medical conditions or medications.

Frostbite

People working or playing outdoors during the winter can develop frostbite and not even know it.

Since there is no pain associated with the early stages of frostbite, the Nassau County Department of Health recommends watching for these danger signs:

• First, the skin may feel numb and become flushed.  Then it turns white or grayish-yellow.  Frostbitten skin feels cold to the touch.

• If frostbite is suspected, move the victim to a warm area.  Cover the affected area with something warm and dry.  NEVER RUB IT!