Could this weather be any more Wisconsin? It kind of makes it hard to know whether to wear your pea coat or a full snowsuit! Either way, we want to help you protect yourself no matter what the forecast is this winter!
Check out this AWESOME infographic from the National Weather Service:
Cold weather can be dangerous and even life-threatening, so it's important to limit your exposure to extreme cold when possible. Make sure you know the signs and symptoms of cold weather illness and injury AND how to treat them!
Symptoms of Hypothermia:
Shivering
Slurred speech or mumbling
Slow, shallow breathing
Weak pulse
Clumsiness or lack of coordination
Drowsiness or very low energy
Confusion or memory loss
Loss of consciousness
Bright red, cold skin (in infants)
Treatment for Hypothermia:
Hypothermia is a medical emergency! Call 911 or your local emergency number if you or someone you're with is showing signs of hypothermia.
While waiting for emergency assistance, move the person inside as gently as possible as jarring movements can trigger dangerous irregular heartbeats. Carefully remove any wet clothing, and replace it with warm, dry coats or blankets.
Symptoms of Frostbite:
Initial cold skin and a prickling feeling
Numbness
Red, white, bluish-white or grayish-yellow skin
Hard or waxy-looking skin
Clumsiness due to joint and muscle stiffness
Blistering after rewarming, in severe cases
Treatment for Frostbite:
Protect the affected area from further cold and do NOT walk on frostbitten feet. If need be, reduce pain with over the counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen, Advil, or Motrin IB.
If symptoms worsen and fever, pain, swelling, redness or discharge in the area that was frostbitten is experienced, SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION!
Dressing your kiddos for outdoor winter activity
If you have any questions or concerns about winter gear OR if you or someone you know is struggling to afford proper winter attire, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Our goal is to be your allies in health and wellbeing!
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