Dangerously cold temperatures will move into our region this week and create hazardous conditions. At Essentia Health, we want you to stay safe. Below are simple steps you can take to protect yourself and loved ones during extreme cold.
Prevent hypothermia and frostbite: The colder the temperature, the faster you can get frostbite. With forecasted temperatures in the 20s and 30s below zero, frostbite can develop in less than 10 minutes and is most likely to affect extremities (fingers, toes, etc.). Limit time spent outdoors in extreme cold. Know the signs of hypothermia, such as shivering, confusion and drowsiness, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms occur.
Maintain indoor safety: Ensure your home is properly heated and use space heaters safely (no extension cords). Install carbon monoxide detectors to prevent poisoning from heating sources.
Mental health: The shorter days and longer nights can affect mental health, leading to conditions like Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Staying active, maintaining social connections and getting enough sunlight can help improve mood and overall well-being.
Check on others: Be sure to check in occasionally on vulnerable neighbors, friends or family members, especially if they live alone.
Travel safely: Check road conditions before traveling and keep a winter emergency kit in your vehicle.
Dress warm: Dress in layers of loose-fitting clothing to stay warm and dry. Wear a hat, gloves and a scarf to prevent heat loss and protect exposed skin from frostbite.
Be cautious on ice: Watch for icy patches on sidewalks and driveways.
Stay hydrated: Even in cold weather, it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Sun safety: Even though the temperatures are colder, the sun can still be harmful to your skin. During outdoor winter activities, sunglasses and sunscreen are still recommended.
Treatment depends on the stage and severity of frostbite. If it’s more mild, often referred to as “frostnip” — in which skin turns red or purple and is cold and tingly — you can begin treatment at home. Remove cold-weather gear and any wet clothing. Submerge the affected areas of skin in a warm (not hot) bath, then cover the skin with blankets.
If the frostbite is more severe, contact a medical professional immediately. At Essentia, you can:
Go to the emergency department if you’re having trouble breathing, chest pain, severe pain or serious injury, severe stomach pain, sudden numbness or weakness, fainting, confusion or suicidal thoughts.
Not sure where to start? Call the Essentia Nurse Care Line at 1 (800) 714-4646; access MyChart; or go to the Essentia Health same-day care webpage. You also can learn more about immediate care options with this convenient online tool.
Many communities have warming centers available for people who need shelter from the cold. That includes the Chum Warming Center at 2014 W. Third St. in Duluth and the Fargo Winter Warming Center at 222 Fourth St. N. in Fargo.
To search for additional warming shelters or other resources in your community, visit Resourceful, a free online database that connects people with essential resources like shelter, food and transportation.
