Did you know that sometimes it gets so cold in Siberia that it's possible for a person's breath to actually freeze into ice crystals that can be heard when they hit the ground? While it doesn't get that cold here in the Midwest, it still gets dangerously cold. This quarter we wanted to share with you some valuable information on the symptoms and remedies for three health hazards of working in the cold for extended periods of time -- heart strain, frostbite, and hypothermia.

• Heart strain - Cold weather can put a strain on the heart. Whether you're young or old, fit or fat, you need to avoid overexertion in the winter. We know this is true for activities like shoveling snow…well, its true for all outdoor activities.
• Frostbite - If you've been outside for a while and are unable to feel your fingers, toes, nose, and/or earlobes you may have frostbite. While immediate medical attention is always your best course of action if it isn't readily available slowly re-warm the affected body areas. The only exception to this approach is when you might also be experiencing symptoms of hypothermia.
• Hypothermia - This condition is brought about when the body's temperature has dropped to less than 95 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms include slow or slurred speech, incoherence, memory loss, disorientation, uncontrollable shivering, drowsiness, repeated stumbling, and apparent exhaustion. Again, seek medical attention immediately. DO NOT WARM EXTREMITIES (arms, legs, fingers, etc.) as this drives blood to the heart and can lead to heart failure. Instead warm the body core/trunk first by wrapping blankets around the body and covering the head and neck. DO NOT TAKE HOT BEVERAGES OR FOOD!
  

Stay safe this winter!