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Extreme cold puts everyone at risk. The risks are greater for young children, older adults, people with chronic illnesses, people working or exercising outdoors, and those without proper shelter.
- dress warmly
- dress in layers, the outer layer should be wind resistant
- synthetic and wool fabrics provide as good insulating properties
- cover up
- frostbite can develop within minutes on exposed skin, especially with wind chill
synthetic and wool fabrics provide as good insulating properties - watch for colour changes on fingers and toes, pain, numbness, a tingling sensation, or swelling
- keep dry to stay warmer
- keep moving to maintain your body heat and seek shelter from the wind
- outdoor workers should take regularly scheduled breaks to warm up
- if itβs too cold for you to stay outside, itβs too cold for your pet to stay outside
- ask a health professional how medications or health conditions can affect your risk in the cold
- a person with a heart condition should avoid strenuous activities like shovelling snow
- check on older family, friends and neighbours
- keep emergency supplies in your vehicle such as extra blankets and jumper cables
- make sure your home is well-insulated, the heating system is working efficiently and seal off cracks and drafts