Cold Weather

Ottawa is one of the coldest capitals in the world. Winter temperature paired with wind can cause severe injuries and even death. Frostbite injuries can lead to amputations. Hypothermia, the most serious of cold weather complications can lead to brain damage and then death. Most susceptible to these cold weather problems are the elderly, children, the homeless, outdoor workers and sport enthusiasts. City of Ottawa Paramedics would like to offer a few tips to prevent the cold weather in becoming a life-threatening event.

• Wear a hat - up to 40 per cent of body heat loss can occur through the head
  
  
• Wear gloves or mittens
  
  
• Wear a scarf to protect the chin, lips and cheeks - all are extremely susceptible to cold weather injuries.
  
  
• Drink warm fluids, but no alcohol. Alcohol promotes other cold weather injuries.
  
  
• If you start to sweat, cool off a little. Wet clothes will also encourage other cold weather injuries.
  
  
• Wear clothes in layers
  
  
• Inner Layer (closest to the skin) - should have "wicking" properties to move any moisture away from the skin
• Middle Layer - should be the insulating layer to prevent loss of your body heat while keeping the cold outside air away
• Outer Layer - should be the "windbreaking" layer to reduce the chances of cold air reaching the insulating layer
  
  

Always be on the lookout for signs of frostbite and hypothermia. In case of serious cold weather injury, City of Ottawa Paramedics urge you to seek immediate medical attention.