Weather forecasters are predicting temperatures in the teens this month which, combined with wind chill, mean that we are in for some cold weather! Follow these words of wisdom from The Weather Channel and the New York City Office of Emergency Management to stay warm and prevent cold-related injuries:
Bundle Up!
Wear a hat, hood, or scarf, as most heat is lost through the head.
Wear layers, as they provide better insulation and warmth.
Keep fingertips, earlobes, and noses covered if you go outside.
Keep clothing dry; if a layer becomes wet, remove it.
Treat Frostbite
Frostbite most commonly occurs to the extremities of the body — nose, cheeks, ears, fingers, and toes. Exposing your skin to the cold can result in crystals forming either superficially or in the fluids and underlying soft tissues. Frostbite can range from mild discomfort to damage of the skin tissue, especially if the area has been thawed and refrozen.The skin may appear slightly flushed before frostbite sets in, turning to white or grayish yellow. Initially the affected part may have a painful tingle, but this usually subsides. The area will feel intensely cold and numb. Often the victim is unaware of the problem until an observer notices the pale, glossy skin.Protect frostbitten areas from further trauma and quickly rewarm by immersing in warm (102-105 degrees Fahrenheit), not hot, water. If the area has thawed and refrozen, warm at room temperature and do not use excessive heat such as a stove or hot water bottle. If water is unavailable or impractical, carefully wrap the affected area in warm clothing or blankets. Do not massage the injured area as you may damage frozen tissue. Swelling will occur after thawing. Discontinue warming as soon as the part becomes flushed. If feet are affected and the victim must walk to obtain assistance, do not attempt to thaw beforehand. For anything other than a very minor affliction, seek medical attention.
Treat Hypothermia
Hypothermia develops when the body's core temperature drops below the level where the body can reheat itself. If immediate steps are not taken, it can result in damage to vital organs. Signs of hypothermia include slurred speech, numbness, shivering, mental confusion, impairment of judgment, stumbling and uncoordinated walk, failing eyesight, exhaustion, and/or drowsiness.First aid for hypothermia includes removing wet clothing and rewarming the body, chest, shoulders, and stomach areas first. Use heating pads, hot water bottles, blankets, or other people next to the victim to transmit body heat. Keep the heat source warm — not hot — as skin sensitivity may be reduced or lost. Elevate feet and lower the head to increase circulation to the chest area. Keep a close eye on the respiratory system. If the victim is conscious you can administer warm liquids, but do not give alcohol or sedatives. Do not massage any area. Call for medical assistance as soon as possible.Put the victim's feet up and head down for quicker circulation to the chest and vital organs. Keep a close eye on the respiratory system. If the victim is conscious you may administer warm liquids but no alcohol or sedatives. Do not massage any area. Call for medical assistance as soon as possible.
Stay Warm Inside
If you know someone who does not have any heat in their apartment, urge them to call 311.
Between October 1st and May 31st, a period designated as "Heat Season," building owners are also required to provide tenants with heat under the following conditions:
Between the hours of 6:00 AM and 10:00 PM, if the outside temperature falls below 55 degrees, the inside temperature is required to be at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit; and,
Between the hours of 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM, if the temperature outside falls below 40 degrees, the inside temperature is required to be at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Emergency heating oil or repairs may be available, or they may be directed to .
Watch For Those Vulnerable to the Cold
If you see anyone sleeping outside during these cold nights, call 311 and let them know.
