As the days get shorter and the nights get colder, we all get a sneaky suspicion that winter is officially upon us. So here at ABC Training Services we thought now was the perfect time to help give you some advice on how to stay safe this winter, as the cold weather can bring a whole host of first aid worries.
Hypothermia
One of the main dangers that is often associated with winter is hypothermia. Hypothermia is often caused by prolonged exposure to the cold. When exposed to low temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it’s produced. Lengthy exposures will eventually use up your body’s stored energy, which leads to dangerous and rapid loss in body temperature.
Hypothermia, in the worst cases, can lead to complete failure of your heart and respiratory system and eventually to death
Tell tale signs you may be suffering from hypothermia are confusion, memory loss, slurred speech and prolonged shivering.
The best way to help someone you believe may be suffering from hypothermia is to move them out of the cold and remove any wet clothing as this will only add to the already lowering body temperature. Provide the person with dry blankets and a warm drink to help stabilise their internal temperature.
If this does not appear to be working or the person’s symptoms are worsening please call 111 and they may advise visiting your closest hospital so oxygen levels and body temperature can be monitored effectively.
Frostbite
Frostbite occurs when bare skin is exposed to freezing temperatures for a long duration. The most common areas to suffer from frostbite are the hands, lips, nose and ears. There are several stages to frostbite,
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Stage One
Irritation to the skin and pain.
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Stage Two
Blistering but with no major damage to affected area.
- Stage Three
All layers of the skin are affected and permanent tissue damage occurs.
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Stage Four
Bones and tendons freeze.
The best treatment for frostbite is a warm bath containing some form of antiseptic, this helps to rewarm the skin and remove any dead tissue or bacteria that might be in the affected area. Most people make a full recovery after suffering from frostbite, however if stage 3-4 are reached further medical intervention may be required.
If this is the case then calling 111 is recommended as they will be able to recommend the next best course of action in your situation.
Mental Health
Winter not only brings cold weather leading to illnesses, but also much shorter days. As the hours of daylight reach their yearly low many struggle with their mental health. Vitamin D, provided by the sun, is strongly correlated with reducing depression. So during the winter period many will suffer.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is the official diagnosis for bouts of depression caused by the lack of sunlight during winter.
We suggest during these times to reach out to your friends whether it’s because you’re struggling or you worry they may be. We all need a helpful hand and someone to speak to every now and then. Also, investing in Vitamin D supplements can be beneficial to help your body maintain its Vitamin D levels.
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As the days get shorter and the nights get colder, we all get a sneaky suspicion that winter is officially upon us. So here at ABC Training Services we thought now was the perfect time to help give you some advice on how to stay safe this winter, as the cold weather can bring a whole host of first aid worries.
