Here in Tulsa many of us enjoy the activities that come when Old Man Winter pays us a visit for this one season a year.  Our winters can be harsh at times, though, and bring with them some potential dangers and risks.  Please review the tips below to insure that you and your family have the safest winter possible.

Safety Tips for the Kids

Winter brings some dangers that kids are not always aware of.  When the harsh weather hits it is safest for them to stay indoors.  Exposed to freezing temps for long periods could increase their risk of frostbite or hypothermia.

Once the chilly weather has passed, however, and the kids get outside to play, make sure their clothing is layered and don’t forget to have them wear a hat and mittens.  Many layers of thin clothing is actually warmer than a single layer of thick clothing.  That hat is necessary since body heat is lost out the top of your head and the back of your neck.

Kids should have a time limit set for them when they are outside.  Warm-up breaks are needed on some  of the colder days.  Remember that hot cocoa and cookies are a wonderful bribe as needed.

If your child gets too tired or starts to shiver excessively this could be the start of hypothermia or frostbite.  Other signs: the nose, fingers, toes, or earlobes start to feel numb or turn very pale.  If these occur bring them in right away.

Safety Tips for the Adults

Adults should also wear lightweight clothing in several layers.  Trapping the air between the layers acts as an insulator.  Layers can always be removed more easily to avoid perspiration and chills.  Outer garments should be tightly woven and treated with a durable water repellent.

Like the children, adults should wear a cap or hat on their head.  Mittens, with the fingers touching, are also better than gloves as they produce more heat.   Have them snug at the wrist, too.

Adults who have been exposed for a length of time to frosty temps should be aware of these symptoms as they may be signs of hypothermia setting in:

1. Inability to concentrate
2. Poor coordination
3. Slurred speech
4. Drowsiness
5. Exhaustion
6. Uncontrollable shivering, followed by a sudden lack of shivering

If a person’s body temperature ever drops below 95 degrees F, emergency medical assistance is immediately needed.  You should wrap them in warm blankets and give them a warm, non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated liquid until help arrives.

Without even being aware of it, you can develop frostbite.  No pain is associated with its early stages.  For people playing or working outdoors, here are some danger signs you should be aware of:

1. The skin may feel numb and become flushed.
2. It then turns white or grayish-yellow.
3. Frostbitten skin feels cold to the touch.
4. If frostbite is suspected, move the victim to a warm area. Cover the affected area with something warm and dry. Never rub it!
5. Get to a doctor or hospital as quickly as possible.

Considering the weather we’ve experienced so far, now is a good time to review these tips with the rest of your family or friends.

There are many retail stores in the Tulsa area where you can purchase your cold weather gear.