When temperatures drop quickly and extremely, like they have done across the Lakeland over the last week, experts are quick to caution residents about the dangers of frostbite.
Outdoor activitities that might have been handled a week ago in a light coat and gloveless hands will now need warmer clothing with more coverage, says Alberta Health Services Medical Officer of Health Dr. Jack Pang.
Extremely cold temperatures like the ones now blanketing most of the province pose a danger to those who venture outside Pang says.
Skin can freeze within minutes when temperatures drop below the minus 30 mark.
“Frostbite occurs when skin becomes so cold, the skin and underlying tissues freeze,” he stated.
Pang explained that there are three degrees of frostbite, ranging from the little tingle on exposed skin people get when going outside, which is easily reversed, to where the skin injury has reached a point that it is possibly limb-threatening.
Treatment of frostbite, Pang says, begins with removal from the cold environment to a warm one. Also, early recognition is key. He added that affected skin may look white and waxy and feel hard to the touch.
Upon immediately moving to a warm environment, the affected area needs to be placed in warm — not hot — water, until it is fully re-warmed. Residents are also advised to seek medical attention as required.
“It’s not uncommon to see an increased number of people with injuries such as frostbite and hypothermia (in medical facilities) during extreme cold temperatures,” he said.
Layer it up
When going outdoors, Pang said, people can take various precautions to prevent frostbite, including covering as much skin as possible with toques, gloves, scarves, and other warm clothing.
Dressing in layers is also a good plan of action.
“It’s easier to take a layer off, should you be too warm, rather than be in need of layers, if cold,” he explained.
According to Pang, people should also take frequent breaks, rest inside of a warm vehicle or structure, and stay hydrated if outside in frigid temperatures. He said AHS advocates for people to walk like a penguin in the cold, meaning short, shuffle-like steps, knees bent, and hands free, and to also wear footwear with rugged, anti-slip soles along with good ankle support.
Lakeland forecast
Environment Canada’s seven-day forecast isn’t calling for much relief in the Arctic blast over the Lakeland. Daytime highs will remain between the mid minus 20s and the mid 30s all week. Overnight lows are expected to dip into the mid minus 30s until the weekend.
