Education : Cold Weather
Keep Warm and Healthy on the Farm During Cold Weather
When wintry weather arrives, it brings with it special cold-related problems. While everyone is at risk to the dangers of cold weather, older adults, young children, and people with chronic illnesses are at greatest risk because they are less capable of adapting to extreme temperatures. Those whose livelihood relies on outdoor activities, such as farmers and ranchers, are also at great risk because they are more often exposed to the cold and the winter elements.
Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures under certain conditions can result in serious cold-related health conditions and can even be fatal. The four elemental conditions that cause cold-related stress are low temperatures, high/cool winds, dampness and cold water. Wind chill, a combination of temperature and velocity, is an important factor to consider. A dangerous situation of rapid heat loss may arise for anyone exposed to high winds and cold temperatures.
Harmful effects of cold include both frostbite and hypothermia. Frostbite occurs when the skin tissue actually freezes, causing ice crystals to form between cells and draw water from them, which leads to cellular dehydration. The initial effects of frostbite include uncomfortable sensations of coldness; tingling, stinging or aching feeling on the exposed area followed by numbness. Frostbitten areas appear white and cold to the touch.
If you suspect frostbite, seek medical assistance immediately. Frostbitten parts should be covered with dry, sterile gauze or soft, clean cloth bandages. Do not massage frostbitten tissue because this sometimes causes greater injury. Take measures to prevent further cold injury.
Hypothermia, or cold stress, is a dangerous medical condition that can be life threatening if not treated promptly. Hypothermia occurs when a person’s body temperature (normally about 98.6 degrees) falls to 95 degrees or lower. Warning signs of hypothermia include symptoms such as confusion, shivering cold, slow breathing, sleepiness, cold stomach skin, difficulty walking, stiff muscles, puffy face, forgetfulness and/or trembling on one side of the body.
If you suspect someone has hypothermia, stay calm and call for emergency assistance. Handle the person very gently and conserve the person’s remaining body heat protecting them from the cold with blankets, jackets, or towels, making sure to cover the head and neck.
Preventing cold-weather related ailments doing outdoor chores is essential. This can be accomplished by following these simple tips:
· Wear layers of loose clothing. Multiple layers of varying thickness allows you to regulate your body temperature.
· Cover your head, neck and ears. The head, neck and ears lose heat faster than any other part of the body.
· Stay dry. Change wet clothes as quickly as possible.
· Consume nourishing meals and warm drinks to help keep your body warm.
· Avoid alcohol and caffeine.
· Keep in contact with friends, family members and neighbors during cold weather.
Farm and ranch families are at risk for cold-weather related disorders because of outdoor chores or just enjoying an outdoor activity on a sunny, bitterly cold day. Wintertime can be an exciting season if you prevent cold-weather incidents by conserving energy and body heat without compromising your comfort in cold weather.
Have a safe and warm winter!
Source: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and we-energies.com.
For more great Farm Safety Information check out: www.fs4jk.org
