For those of you that are trying to survive these cold winter months here are some tips to review:
If at all possible stay dry and warm inside, but for those that do need to go out dress appropriately. Wear several layers of lightweight, loose fitting, warm clothing, which will provide different layers for the air to insulate you. Make sure your outwear in water repellent and wear gloves, boots, scarfs and some sort of head protection. Half of your body heat can be lost from your head. If possible wear a stocking hat and hooded coat. Try to protect your mouth with your scarf to avoid extreme cold air from getting into your lungs. And stretch your muscles to warm them up and prepare.
Once outside try to avoid overexertion. If shoveling the snow, take breaks often and drink plenty of water. Use a ergonomically correct shovel, the kind with a curve in it. If possible, use a smaller bladed plastic shovel rather than a metal. They weigh less and put less strain on your body.
The National Weather Service has provided a chart to calculate the windchill and time it will take for you to get frostbite. See below:
Just remember stretch your muscles before going out, take plenty of breaks, drink plenty of water, and re-stretch out your back and extremities, these temperatures are very hazardous. And most importantly check on loved ones often to make sure they are staying safe and warm.
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