Staying Safe in Extreme Temperatures

The great outdoors can be enjoyed in all seasons. However, it is important to be aware of the effects extreme temperatures have on the human body. Learning the danger signs and planning ahead allows everyone to stay safe during grand adventures.

Before considering how to react in an extreme heat crisis, carefully plan ahead to prevent an emergency. Choose a location with shade and near water. Check the weather forecast. When soaring temperatures are possible, plan outdoor activities for early in the day or late evening. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing and a hat. Bring along plenty of water (preferably with electrolytes), protect your skin, go slower than usual, and take breaks. Plan on eating a salty snack once an hour. Also, let someone know where you are going and use the buddy system.

Heat-related complications that might develop include heat cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. If anyone in your group begins having muscle cramps or fatigue (feeling very tired), ease off, rest, and hydrate. If you notice lightheadedness, dizziness, heavy sweating, headache, or nausea, that individual may be experiencing heat exhaustion. At this point, stop the activity, have the person lie down and sip liquids, loosen or remove tight clothing, and arrange for a cold shower or cold compresses if possible. Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or don’t improve. Heat stroke occurs when the body cannot control its own temperature or produce cooling perspiration. Call 9-1-1 immediately if the individual stops sweating, develops a throbbing headache, becomes confused, or loses consciousness. Watch for staggering, slurred speech, or red, hot, dry skin. While awaiting medical help, seek air conditioning, dampen the person’s skin, and apply ice packs if possible.

Exposure to extreme cold can also become life-threatening. As you and your friends or family members consider activities in cold weather, prevent problems and injuries by planning ahead. Check the weather forecast, and choose a different date if wintry storms or harsh temperatures are predicted. Before heading out into extreme cold, pack these essentials: dry layers (including extra socks), water (keep it unfrozen), high-energy snacks (peanut butter, nuts, cheese), and hand and toe warmers (which should never be worn touching the skin). Always wear layers in cold conditions. Insulating layers should be puffy and loose, creating a layer of warm air between your body and the cold elements. Avoid cotton, which may become damp and freeze. Wear a hat and full-face protection that covers your chin. Start early since it could become dark before you know it, keep hydrated, and be aware of when to turn around and head back. Again, be sure to let others know where you are going, and do not go out alone.

Individuals exposed to dangerously cold temperatures may suffer from hypothermia or even frostbite. Hypothermia occurs when one’s body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing dangerously low body temperature. Hypothermia becomes more likely when cold temperatures combine with wind and/or moisture. Its initial signs include shivering and exhaustion, but it can progress to slurred speech, mumbling, clumsiness, lack of coordination, or slow, shallow breathing. Even worse, the individual may begin to experience memory loss or drowsiness, which can lead to death. If you observe any such deterioration in someone’s condition, call 9-1-1 immediately because they require medical attention. While waiting for help, gently move them indoors if possible, remove any clothing that might be wet, and cover them with dry, warm blankets or coats.

Frostbite results when skin and underlying tissues freeze. Its earliest stages do not cause permanent damage, but when ice crystals form in the cells, they rupture and die. Tissue death, called gangrene, in any area will likely decay and require amputation. A prickling sensation may develop first, followed by numbness and discolored skin. This usually impacts fingers, toes, or the nose. Symptoms may worsen to include pain, burning, swelling, blisters, or clumsiness. If blisters appear, do not break them. Giving the individual warm liquids to drink and applying warm washcloths to the face and ears often helps. The affected areas can be soaked in warm, but not hot, water. Pat dry very gently; do not rub areas that are being rewarmed. After about 30 minutes of rewarming, check whether the individual can move the affected areas. If the symptoms persist or get worse, stop the rewarming efforts and seek immediate medical attention.

With knowledge and thoughtful preparation, tragedies can be avoided. Nature’s playgrounds have much to offer and can be enjoyed when everyone remains safe. Be prepared, be confident, have fun, and stay aware.