The beginning of the spring semester in January always means cold days and even colder nights. This coming week we are forecast to experience the coldest weather of the season so far. We want you to be safe during the winter weather, so here are some tips from the National Weather Service and the American Red Cross to help you remain safe during cold weather:

Listen to the weather forecast

• Local stations include KNWA (www.nwahomepage.com), KFSM (www.5newsonline.com) and KHOG (www.4029tv.com)
• Listen for wind chill warnings. Warnings are based on local climate and are issued when significant wind chills are expected. Wind chills are what it actually feels like outside on your skin.

Dress Warmly

• Dress in layers with a wind resistant outer layer. Inner layers could include thermal underwear, wicking clothing, runner's tights, etc. 
• Wear a hat and mittens/insulated gloves. Keep your face warm with a scarf, neck tube or facemask to protect your lungs.
• Wear warm and waterproof footwear that are flat and have good traction. 
• When it is very cold or when the wind chill is significant, cover as much exposed skin as possible. Your body's extremities, such as the ears, nose, fingers and toes lose heat the quickest.

Seek Shelter

• When the wind chill is significant, get out of the wind and limit the time you spend outside.

Stay Dry

• Wet clothing chills the body rapidly.
• Remove outer layers of clothing or open your coat if you are sweating.

Keep Active

• Walking or running will help warm you by generating body heat.

Be Aware

• Some people are more susceptible to the cold, particularly children, the elderly and those with circulation problems.
• The use of alcohol, tobacco and certain medications will increase your susceptibility to the cold.
• Watch for signs of frostbite or hypothermia.

What is hypothermia?

• Being cold over a prolonged period of time can cause a drop in body temperature.  
• Symptoms include shivering, confusion, slurred speech and loss of muscular control (i.e. difficulty walking).
• It can progress to a life-threatening condition where shivering stops or the person loses consciousness. Cardiac arrest can occur.

What to do:

• Get medical attention immediately by calling 911.
• Lay the person down and avoid rough handling.
• Get the person indoors.
• Gently remove wet clothing.
• Warm the person gradually and slowly, using available sources of heat.

What is Frostbite?

• A more severe condition where both the skin and the underlying tissue (fat, muscle, bone) are frozen.
• Skin appears white and waxy and is hard to the touch.
• No sensation - the area is numb or tingling.

What to do:

• Frostbite can be serious and can result in amputation. Get medical help!
• Do not rub or massage the area.
• Do not warm the area until you can ensure it will stay warm.
• Warm the area gradually, use body heat or warm water. Avoid direct heat, which can burn the skin.

The winter months can seem long, but practicing these safety measures will make each day a little easier to navigate.