As the extreme cold warning continues, local health officials are reminding residents to protect themselves from the elements.
Public Health inspector Corie Goodwill says overexposure to cold can result in hypothermia.
“Cover up is the first thing and stay inside as much as possible. Symptoms to watch out for include: Areas of skin turning red, blue or a grey/white. Pain, numbness and stiffness, especially in fingers, toes, ears and nose, which are most susceptible,” says Goodwill. “To avoid hypothermia or frostbite people should dress warmly in layers—with warm gloves and boots and wear a hat—30% of body heat escapes through the head. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration and alcohol consumption makes hypothermia more likely.”
Goodwill says anyone going outside over the next few days needs to bundle up and make sure you’re wearing a hat as 30% of a person’s body heat escapes through their head.
