Safety First – Protect Yourself from Frostbite and Hypothermia

 Winters can get really chilly in Vancouver, and the frigid conditions can be dangerous for people who work outdoors. With temperatures often dipping well below freezing, hypothermia and frostbite are ever-present threats, which is why it's essential to know emergency first aid measures.

Frostbite




When our body feels cold, it sends blood to the vital organs (the core) to stay alive. However, it can leave our limbs and extremities more vulnerable to the cold. The blood circulation slows down in the extremities, making them more susceptible to frostbite.

 

an image of people standing in cold weather

Frostbite is the most common condition caused by extreme cold. If it's not diagnosed and treated early on, it’s likely to cause permanent damage and may result in amputation.

There are two types of frostbite; superficial and deep frostbite. Superficial frostbite affects the skin surface; however, the underlying tissue remains soft. The skin may appear white and numb.

On the other hand, Deep Frostbite affects all the layers of the skin, and the damage is most likely to be permanent. Blisters form over the skin, and it becomes completely numb. Eventually, the skin tissue dies and turns black.

What Can You Do To Prevent Frostbite?

It is imperative to follow the following steps to prevent permanent damage.

1. Move the person to a warmer place.

2. Remove wet clothing or any constricting items

3. Place frostbitten area in lukewarm water. If water is not available, keep the affected area warm with body heat, i.e., placing it in the armpit, between the legs, or in warm hands.

4. Protect and elevate the frostbitten area

Hypothermia




Hypothermia, on the other hand, is when our core body temperature drops. Even if our body temperature decreases a few degrees, hypothermia can settle in.

Mild hypothermia affects our brain and body’s functioning, and severe hypothermia can lead to death.

Severe shivering is the first sign of hypothermia, and as it progresses, you’ll start feeling drowsy and exhausted. Slurred speech and an irregular heartbeat are other symptoms of hypothermia.

What Can You Do To Prevent Hypothermia?

If you think you or anyone around you has frostbite or hypothermia, immediately call an ambulance. Immediate medical care Is crucial. Follow the following steps to avoid hypothermia

1. Move the person to a warmer place, but handle carefully and avoid excessive movement.

2. Keep the person in a horizontal position.

3. Remove wet clothing and cover them in a blanket. Cover the head to ensure body warmth

4. Provide warm drinks to the victim (Not Alcohol)

5. Do not massage the victim’s skin. Warm them through heat packs or hot water bottles

Be sure to call for a certified emergency first aid practitioner as the above steps are not a substitute for medical attention.

About Metro Safety

Metro Safety provides First Aid Training courses in Vancouver and other nearby places. To book your first aid training, contact Metro Safety now! 

 

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Fall Protection Courses: Your Gateway to a Secure Work Environment

Image
  In high-risk industries like construction and fire safety, where tasks often involve working at considerable heights, the significance of fall protection training  cannot be understated. It's not just about gaining skills; it's about fostering a culture of safety that ensures a secure work environment  for everyone. The Necessity of Fall Protection Training Working at heights presents inherent dangers. The necessity of fall protection training  lies in its ability to prepare individuals  to confront these dangers head-on. Accidents resulting from falls can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. Hence, comprehensive fall protection training  isn't just a choice; it's a fundamental requirement. Benefits of Enrolling in Fall Protection Courses 1.   Enhanced Safety Awareness Fall protection  courses go beyond just teaching you the technicalities. They instill a profound understanding of the risks associated with working at heights. You'll learn...
Read more

OFA Level 3 Course: Workplace Safety and Why Every Company Should Implement It

Image
Accidents are bound to happen when you’re in a confined space with lots of things scattered around your workplace  that might distract you. Workplace safety is a critical aspect of any organization, and the OFA level 3 course  is an excellent way to ensure that everyone stays safe and healthy during work hours. What is the OFA Level Three Course ? Firstly, it's essential to understand what the OFA level 3 course  is and what it entails. The course is an advanced first-aid training program  that focuses on the prevention of accidents and the timely response to on-site injuries. It is designed to provide employees with the skills required to maintain a safe and healthy working environment  for themselves and their colleagues. How Can It Help Employees? And, is it important to implement the OFA level 3 course  in your workplace? The answer is simple; it saves lives and prevents workplace injuries. Accidents can happen at any time, and it's crucial to be prepar...
Read more

A Comprehensive Guide to Levels of Occupational First Aid Level Training and Certification

Image
  Having well-trained individuals equipped with the necessary first aid skills can make a significant difference in saving lives. Metro Safety offers a comprehensive range of Occupational First Aid (OFA) level training and certification programs, ensuring that individuals are adequately prepared to handle workplace emergencies. Occupational First Aid Level 1 (OFA Level 1) Metro Safety's Occupational First Aid Level 1  ( OFA 1 training ) training program is an essential foundation for workplace safety. This course covers fundamental first aid skills, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), choking response, wound care, and basic life support techniques. Participants gain the knowledge and confidence to respond effectively to workplace emergencies and provide immediate assistance until professional medical help arrives. Occupational First Aid Level 2 (OFA Level 2) Building upon the skills acquired in OFA Level 1, Metro Safety's Occupational First Aid Level 2  ( OFA 2...
Read more