When a freeze warning is issued, it’s not just a cross-your-arms-and-wait-it-out directive — it’s an official health, safety and life warning. The warning tells of dangerously low temperatures that could cause hypothermia, frostbite and other cold-related illness. Knowing what an extreme cold warning is and how to act is essential so that you can stay safe.
🌡️ What Does an Extreme Cold Warning Mean?
An extreme cold warning is a warning from a weather service (such as Environment and Climate Change Canada or the U.S. National Weather Service) for the general public that the wind chill, or combination of temperature and wind speed, is expected to reach dangerous levels. For example, the NWS may provide such a warning alert if wind chills are expected to be −30 °F (−34 °C) or lower for at least two hours. These conditions may result in frostbite of uncovered skin in about 10 minutes.
🧊 Health Dangers in and After a Deep Freeze
1. Hypothermia
Hypothermia sets in when your body loses heat faster than it can make it, and your body temperature falls below 95°F (35°C). Symptoms may also include uncontrollable shaking, confusion, slurred speech, sleepiness or tiredness. Undelivered hypothermia can result in death.
2. Frostbite
Frostbite is a condition in which the skin and tissues below it freeze, typically in extremities such as fingers, toes, ears and nose. Symptoms Road rash Signs and symptoms of road rash are:dry or wet rash of the skin.skin that is numb to the touch.skin that appears white or white with a tinge of red or grayish-yellow.skin that feels cold or hard.skin that is swollen.skin that is discolored from red to pink. Severe frostbite can result in permanent damage, or even in the amputation of a finger or toe.
3. Trench Foot
Trench foot, also called immersion foot, is due to the feet being wet and cold for an extended period of time. Symptoms may consist of tingling, numbness, redness, swelling and/or blister formation. Unmanaged, it can result in infection or tissue death.
🏠 What to Do to Prepare for a Deep Freeze Warning
1. Stay Informed
- Stay informed and updated with local weather forecasts and information from sources you trust, such as NWS or ECCC.
- You can also register to receive emergency notifications.
2. Dress Appropriately
- Dress in loose, lightweight, warm clothing in layers.
- Put a hat on your head and mittens (which are warmer than gloves) on your hands.
- Wear a scarf or mask over face and mouth.
- Keep your feet dry with water resistant boots.
3. Prepare Your Home
- Insulate walls and attics and caulk and weather strip doors and windows.
- Maintain an alternate heating source, and make sure it can be used indoors.
- Keep pipes from freezing by letting faucets drip and leaving cabinet doors open to allow warm air to circulate.
4. Prepare Your Vehicle
- Run your gas tank low, but keep it at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze-up.
- Keep a supply kit in your vehicle that includes blankets, food, water, flashlight and extra batteries.
- Inspect your car’s battery, as well as your tire pressure and antifreeze levels.
🚶♂️ Safety Tips During an Extreme Cold Warning
1. Limit Outdoor Activities
Limit your time outside. If you must go outside:
- Wear layers and protect all exposed skin.
- Keep outings short and do not engage in strenuous activities.
- Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
2. Defense of the Vulnerable
- Look in on elderly neighbors, young children and people with medical problems.
- Do what we can to keep them safe and warm and supplied.
3. Care for Pets
- Bring pets indoors.
- Reduce their exposure to cold and ensure their bedding is warm
🧰 Emergency Kit Essentials
Make an emergency kit with the following items in it:
- Blankets and warm clothing
- Non-perishable canned, bottled or boxed food and water bottles
- Fashlights with spare batteries
- First-aid supplies
- Portable phone charger
- Battery or crank-powered radio
- Sure-to-use medicines and medical items
- Carbon monoxide detector.
Limit your time outside. If you must go outside:
- Wear layers and protect all exposed skin.
- Keep outings short and do not engage in strenuous activities.
- Know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia.
2. Defense of the Vulnerable
- Look in on elderly neighbors, young children and people with medical problems.
- Do what we can to keep them safe and warm and supplied.
3. Care for Pets
- Bring pets indoors.
- Reduce their exposure to cold and ensure their bedding is warm
🧰 Emergency Kit Essentials
Make an emergency kit with the following items in it:
- Blankets and warm clothing
- Non-perishable canned, bottled or boxed food and water bottles
- Fashlights with spare batteries
- First-aid supplies
- Portable phone charger
- Battery or crank-powered radio
- Sure-to-use medicines and medical items
- Carbon monoxide detector.
❓ FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: How long do extreme cold warnings remain in effect?
A: That depends on the weather, but usually until the weather is no longer dangerously hot.
Q2: Can I freeze my skin through my clothes?
A: Frostbite is less likely when wearing appropriate clothing, but tight or wet clothing can increase risk.
Q3: If you believe that hypothermia is present, what can I do?
A: Go seek help at once. Get the person to a warm area, take off wet clothing, and heat the body core first.
Q4: Can I use space heaters during a cold spell?
A: Yes, if used correctly. Do not leave them unattended and keep them away from flammable objects.
📝 Conclusion
Statement Details An extreme cold warning is a call for people to take action to protect themselves or vulnerable members of their community, according to Environment Canada. By recognizing hazards and following certain safety precautions, you can help prevent hazardous situations and protect yourself and your loved ones from extreme cold. Stay informed, stay prepared and stay safe.
💭 Final Thought
The cold can be life-threatening, but with the right information and preparation, you can survive these temperatures safely. Remember, you’re better to be over-prepared than caught by surprise.
📣 Call to Action
Don’t wait for the next extreme cold warning to do something about it. Begin preparing now by putting together your emergency kit, insulating your house and keeping informed from trusted sources with the latest on weather. Spread the word to your friends and family to help keep everybody safe in the cold!
Read More
If you loved learning about cinnamon, you’ll enjoy our other health-packed blogs:
