It was cold outside! In Pennsylvania, we can expect cold weather in January, but single-digit temperatures, blizzards and high winds feel like blasts from the Arctic. When the temperature drops to its lowest levels, everyone should take precautions to be safe.
Trina Abla, MBA, chief medical officer at Penn Highlands Healthcare, offers 8 winter safety tips.
- Hypothermia (abnormally low body temperature) and frostbite: Limit the time you spend outside. Wear layers of clothing to feel warm. Check in on elderly friends and family or those without shelter to make sure they have food, water and shelter. If you lose power and it's too cold inside your home, go to a friend or family member's house or find a community shelter. In extreme cold, wear hats, gloves and face coverings, as any exposed skin can be affected by frostbite within minutes. Remove clothing if it becomes wet or wet.
- Car accidents: Avoid traveling when roads are covered in snow or ice. Follow forecasts and temperatures and use caution when temperatures drop below 32 degrees or when stormy weather is expected. If you must travel, drive slowly with full concentration on the road (no radio, cell phone, etc.). Keep a blanket, water, and cell phone with charger with you.
- Heart attacks: Talk to your doctor if you have heart problems or are unable to walk up stairs easily to see if it is safe for you to shovel snow. Pace yourself and take breaks. If your chest feels tired or tight, stop.
- Back injuries: Push the ice instead of lifting it. Bend at the knees and try not to twist.
- Slip and fall: Wear appropriate shoes. Take baby steps. Keep your hands free. take your time.
- Dry skin: Low humidity and cold air lead to dry skin. Protect your skin by limiting bath time and applying moisturizer and lip balm after it dries. Using a humidifier in your room can also help.
- Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Often referred to as the “winter blues.” When the temperature allows, spend some time outdoors wearing appropriate clothing. Seek help from your doctor if you experience persistent sadness, lack of enjoyment of activities that were previously enjoyable, or changes in appetite or sleep.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning: Common causes of carbon monoxide poisoning include automobile engines, charcoal grills, or fuel-burning appliances. Consider using a battery-powered carbon dioxide detector.
In addition to the eight tips provided to stay safe, Dr. Abla pointed out that the chances of contracting the disease are greater during the cold weather months.
“No matter what the temperature is outside, it is still very important to avoid germs,” Dr. Abla said. “Stay away from people who are sick. Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or sleeve. Wash your hands often. Clean frequently touched surfaces, such as phones and doorknobs. Refrain from touching your face with unwashed hands. Most importantly, vaccinations remain the most powerful tool in Our tools for disease prevention.
While some diseases and conditions resulting from exposure to germs and cold weather can be treated by a family doctor, some conditions such as hypothermia, heart attacks, exposure to carbon monoxide, and serious injuries may require immediate medical attention. Penn Highlands Healthcare provides emergency care throughout Pennsylvania. Our highly skilled emergency physicians, providers, nurses and staff provide 24-hour urgent care for all medical emergencies, 365 days a year. If you think your condition requires immediate treatment, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room. To learn more, visit www.phhealthcare.org/ED.
