While we are no longer under yesterday's (December 26) extreme cold weather warning, temperatures this week are expected to be frigid and it's important to stay safe in the cold.

This morning (December 27), wind chill brought the temperature into the minus 30 range, and Stuart Brideaux, Public Education Officer with AHS EMS, says that is when the risk of frostbite becomes a concern.

Brideaux said the most important reminder this winter is to be prepared and expect the unexpected.

"Where we see concerns are if people were traveling in a vehicle and were relying solely on the protection or the heat of the vehicle and something unexpected occurs like a breakdown or a collision or some other medical emergency, if they have not come prepared with additional winter clothing or a roadside kit or other things to keep them safe, that puts them in jeopardy right away."

Brideaux said proper gloves, headwear and scarves are a must to reduce frostbite. Proper insulated footwear with good support and tread will also help you avoid falls as well as keep your feet warm.

Parents also need to pay attention to what their kids are wearing outside, as children may not make safety their first priority.

"They love the cold regardless, they love to go outside, they enjoy playing, they view things a little bit differently and they sometimes are not really always paying attention to their little bodies when they're headed outside, so making sure they are safe, particularly little fingers and toes inside boots, it's valuable to check them frequently when they're out in the cold."

Brideaux said frostbite is a serious concern with the weather as cold as it is in Airdrie.

"Any exposed skin or even lightly covered skin could begin to suffer from frostbite in just minutes, especially if there is any wind when the temperatures are below the low teens or minus twenties. The areas of the body that are usually the most susceptible are nicknamed the pointy parts."

Those "pointy parts" include the tips of fingers and toes, earlobes, the tip of the nose and high parts of the cheek.

 

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