With Very Cold Temps Coming this Weekend, Use These Tips to Prevent Frostbite

This weekend will find temperatures and wind chills below zero.  I believe the official term for such conditions is "butt-nasty cold".   We haven't had to deal with such cold yet this winter, so now is a great time to remember the ways to prevent frostbite, especially if you're heading to the Vikings game on Sunday.

According to the Mayo Clinic, frostbite can be prevented. Here are tips to help you stay safe and warm:

• Limit time you're outdoors in cold, wet or windy weather. Pay attention to weather forecasts and wind chill readings. In very cold, windy weather, exposed skin can develop frostbite in a matter of minutes.
• Dress in several layers of loose, warm clothing. Air trapped between the layers of clothing acts as insulation against the cold. Wear windproof and waterproof outer garments to protect against wind, snow and rain. Choose undergarments that wick moisture away from your skin. Change out of wet clothing — particularly gloves, hats and socks — as soon as possible.
• Wear a hat or headband that fully covers your ears. Heavy woolen or windproof materials make the best headwear for cold protection.
• Wear mittens rather than gloves. Mittens provide better protection. Or try a thin pair of glove liners made of a wicking material (like polypropylene) under a pair of heavier gloves or mittens.
• Wear socks and sock liners that fit well, wick moisture and provide insulation. You might also try hand and foot warmers. Be sure the foot warmers don't make your boots too tight, restricting blood flow.
• Watch for signs of frostbite. Early signs of frostbite include red or pale skin, prickling, and numbness.
• Plan to protect yourself. When traveling in cold weather, carry emergency supplies and warm clothing in case you become stranded. If you'll be in remote territory, tell others your route and expected return date.
• Don't drink alcohol if you plan to be outdoors in cold weather. Alcoholic beverages cause your body to lose heat faster.
• Eat well-balanced meals and stay hydrated. Doing this even before you go out in the cold will help you stay warm. And if you do become cold, drinking warm, sweet beverages, such as hot chocolate, will help you warm up.
• Keep moving. Exercise can get the blood flowing and help you stay warm, but don't do it to the point of exhaustion.

If you are going to be outside Sunday at the Vikings game, take the cold weather seriously.  It probably isn't the time to take off your shirt to get on TV.  You got that, Cathy Kates?

Dress in many layers, cover your head, get hand and feet warmers, and be on the lookout for numbness or changes in skin color as those are signs of frostbite.