Ravenswood

Handling the cold, cold winter

Dec 23, 2003

Winter brings all kinds of opportunities for fun and exciting outdoor activities?—skating, sledding, snowman making and more. There's also work outdoors, especially shoveling all that white stuff. Staying warm, comfortable and safe outside requires a little preparation and common sense, but many people, particularly immigrants, are not familiar with how to handle Chicago?’s cold conditions. Here are a few tips on wintertime outdoor preparedness.
Wear layers of warm, dry clothing, including a hat and gloves. Wet clothing negates insulating effects, so if you get wet, go inside as soon as possible and change into dry clothing.
Cover exposed skin surfaces as protection from frostbite. Signs of frostbite include red/white nose, chin, fingers, forehead and stiff cheeks. Warm frostbitten skin gradually by wrapping or placing it next to warm skin. Do not rub affected areas.
Be aware of hypothermia (body temperature of 95 degrees or less). Signs can include stiff muscles, puffy face, slowed breathing, poor physical condition, and mental confusion. If you suspect hypothermia, call 911 for medical assistance immediately.
Avoid alcoholic beverages. Drink tea, coffee, hot chocolate, broth or soup instead.
Maintain good nutrition and get plenty of rest
Some prescription drugs may increase vulnerability to cold. Check with your doctor.
This article is based on information from the Chicago Department on Aging