Exposure to the cold can result in hypothermia and frostbite. Hypothermia is a medical emergency that occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can generate it.
Normal body temperature is around 98.6 F (37 C).
Hypothermia occurs as your body temperature falls below 95 F (35 C). When your body temperature drops, the heart, nervous system, and other organs can’t work normally. Frostbite is an injury caused by the freezing of the skin and underlying tissue.
Dressing properly can help prevent
hypothermia and frostbite. Dressing in layers is essential. It’s important to wear enough layers to keep warm, but not overheat or sweat excessively. Cotton is probably the worst fabric to wear for warmth. Once it gets wet from rain, snow, or perspiration it extracts heat from the body. This is especially true of cotton socks, t-shirts, and underwear.
When working outside in the cold apply the following four-layer system:
Base Layer– This is the layer next to the skin. It removes moisture from the skin and transfers it to the next layer. The base layer should be made of synthetic materials such as long polypropylene underwear, tops, and socks. Avoid
cotton! Light Insulating Layer– This layer involves clothing such as light fleece or thin wool
sweaters. Heavy Insulating Layer– This layer requires a heavier fleece or wool sweater to trap heat. Outer Layer– This layer protects the body from weather conditions such as wind, rain, sleet, and wet snow.
Don’t forget your head, hands, and feet!
30-50% of percent of body heat is lost through the head. Always wear an insulating hat. For added protection wear a ski mask or gaiter to protect the face.
Wear insulated water resistant gloves. A thin inner glove can be worn for maximum protection.
A two-layer sock system is recommended. A thin polypropylene sock worn under a wool sock allows moisture to wick from the feet.Wool will keep you warm even when it is wet.
Weather resistant insulated boots are best. Boots should be big enough to accommodate a two-layer sock system while allowing a little wiggle room. Tight fitting boots restrict circulation.
Remember, safety doesn’t have to be difficult, simple steps,
such as implementing the four-layer clothing system, can prevent hypothermia and frostbite.