~Winter and keeping cozy and warm!

Wintertime can be a time to enjoy outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, winter walks with the family and bon fires outdoors, however the looming reality is Winnipeg’s weather can range from extremely cold to slightly milder below zero temperatures. There is a possibility to develop frost nip, frostbite and maybe even more seriously, hypothermia.
Frost nip is pain or stinging in the area, followed by numbness and skin that looks paler than the area around it. Frostbite lends itself to waxy skin that is colder that the area around it, skin that is hard and solid to the touch and after thawing, there may be a burning sensation, redness, pain, and tenderness, and blisters may form. It is important to distinguish the difference between the two and hypothermia. Hypothermia is a life-threatening condition that develops when a person’s body temperature drops too low. This happens when one experiences exposure to cold temperatures for too long. People who work or exercise outdoors, elderly people, young children, people who are dehydrated, people with health problems, and people who have heart disease or other conditions that cause poor circulations maybe be at risk.
The best advice we at CANADIAN FIRST-AID TRAINING Ltd. and the CANADIAN RED CROSS can provide is to stay hydrated and ensure you consume enough calories throughout the day. Check the weather forecast before you plan outdoor activities. Wear a hat and layers of clothing made of tightly woven fibers, such as wool, or synthetics, such as fleece, which trap warm air against your body. Cover up vulnerable areas such as your fingers, toes, cheeks ears and nose (but not too tightly!). So before leaving for your walk or planned activity remember to pack your tuque, mits, scarf and warm clothing, a water bottle to stay hydrated and healthy snacks for nourishment. If you have any questions about first-aid or are interested in taking a class, call CANADIAN FIRST-AID TRAINING Ltd. at (204) 233-CFAT (2328). We hope you enjoy your winter!

Jacqueline with CANADIAN FIRST-AID TRAINING Ltd.