Snow, ice and freezing temperatures are right around the corner, and the Dallas County Health Department wants you to know how to stay safe this winter.
The first step is to dress warmly and stay dry. When going outside, both children and adults should dress in several layers of loose-fitting clothing with a water-proof outer layer.
Mittens, snow boots, hats and scarves protect the areas of the body most prone to frostbite: hands, feet, ears, nose and lips.
Be aware of the signs of frostbite and hypothermia. Frostbite is an injury caused by freezing that can lead to loss of feeling and color in affected areas. Signs of frostbite include white or grayish-yellow skin, firm or waxy skin and numbness.
Hypothermia is an abnormally low body temperature caused by extreme cold. Some signs of hypothermia are exhaustion or feeling very tired, confusion, shivering, drowsiness and slurred speech.
If you or a loved one is experiencing signs of frostbite or hypothermia after being exposed to the cold, seek medical care right away.
Proper winter footwear is also important in order to avoid slipping on ice. While it is best to avoid walking on ice all together, wearing non-slip winter boots or adding traction cleats to the bottom of your shoes can reduce your risk of falling.
Salt your walkways and driveway before snowfall to prevent ice from forming.
Finally, be careful while traveling. Check the weather forecast before setting out in order to avoid getting caught in dangerous weather. Avoid driving on ice-covered or snow-covered roads, and drive slowly if you must travel.
Take a cell phone with you, and keep emergency supplies in your vehicle, such as extra warm clothes and blankets, water and snacks, a shovel and a flashlight. Visit the Iowa Department of Transportation’s website to find more winter travel information.
Natalie Peters is the community health educator in the Dallas County Public Health Department.
