LUTHERAN MEDICAL CENTER ENCOURAGES SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS
Wednesday, February 09, 2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
LUTHERAN MEDICAL CENTER ENCOURAGES SEVERE WEATHER PREPAREDNESS
February 9, 2011, Brooklyn, NY…In light of the recent cold spell, Lutheran Medical Center is urging the community to be aware of critical -- but simple -- safety tips that will help avoid cold weather injuries and unnecessary trips to the emergency room.
"Winter weather can be extremely hazardous and it's important for people to think ahead and get prepared," said Bonnie Simmons, D.O., F.A.C.E.P., chair, Emergency Medicine and medical director of Prehospital Care at Lutheran Medical Center. "Frostnip, frostbite, hypothermia, slips on the ice and other winter emergencies can easily be avoided."
Dress/drink appropriately when going outdoors:
• The air temperature does not have to be below freezing for someone to experience cold emergencies such as frostnip/frostbite and hypothermia.
• Dress in layers. Wear gloves or mittens, and replace wet clothing immediately.
• Wear warm boots or shoes with good traction to avoid falls. Be cautious while walking on icy roads and sidewalks.
• Avoid beverages with alcohol or caffeine, they will make you more susceptible to cold-weather emergencies. Drink hot cider, soup or broth, which warm you and give you nutrients and energy.
Recognize the symptoms of cold weather illnesses such as hypothermia and frostbite:
• Symptoms of hypothermia include confusion, dizziness, exhaustion and severe shivering.
• Warning signs of frostnip are pain and redness. Warning signs of frostbite include gray, white or yellow skin discoloration. Frostbite and hypothermia are serious, if either of these conditions are present, seek medical attention immediately.
If you must shovel, do it properly:
• Shoveling is extremely stressful on the heart, take it slow and lift small amounts only. Use proper posture to prevent back strain: keep your back straight, and lift gently from the knees and hips.
• Take frequent breaks. Stop if you feel pain or become short of breath.
• Prevent ice from forming by spreading ice melt when a storm begins, and reapply it again later. Ice melters are more effective than sand or kitty litter.
Stay informed:
• Watch and listen to local news reports to stay on top of the latest weather information.
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