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Although we are all aware of what we should do when outside during a winter storm, it is easy to get caught up in activities and forget about our wellbeing. Next time you prepare to go outside during winter conditions keep the following advice in mind. Be careful if you go outside during a winter storm. Avoid overexertion when shoveling snow. Overexertion can bring on a heart attack—a major cause of death in the winter. If you must shovel snow, stretch before going outside. Cover your mouth. Protect your lungs from extremely cold air by covering your mouth when outdoors. Try not to speak unless absolutely necessary. Keep dry. Change wet clothing frequently to prevent a loss of body heat. Wet clothing will lose all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly. Watch for signs of frostbite. These include loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as fingers, toes, ear lobes, and the tip of the nose. If symptoms are detected, get medical help immediately. Watch for signs of hypothermia. These include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness, and apparent exhaustion. If symptoms of hypothermia are detected:
- get the victim to a warm location For more information, contact Buncombe County Cooperative Extension at 255-5522. (Image provided by Buncombe County.)
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