by Marcie Mattrass

Created on: November 24, 2009

Safety Tips For Walking In The Cold!

If you love to walk on a daily basis don't let the cold weather interrupt your routine. A cool brisk walk can do the body good; just be prepared and be safe and with these tips you should be able to walk all year long.

-Always check the wind chill factor; if the wind is to strong, you may want to remain inside until its a bit safer. Knowing the wind chill factor can save you from frostbite or even hypothermia; knowing those risks can help decrease your risk. Your own movement as you walk increase the wind chill. Low temperatures and high winds can cause a higher threat in cold weather. Walkers beware and know the signs of frostbite and hypothermia if you intend on walking or doing any outdoor activity in the winter months.

-Frostbite is a caused when your body starts to freeze. Frostbite occurs when the body is overexposed to the cold. Remember your hands and your feet are the easiest areas of the body to contract frostbite. Knowing these signs can help you be safe; pain followed by numbness are the first warning signs. The skin can start to turn a white or blue like color. The second stage is loss of control in the affected areas. Treat the areas quickly with proper care and warming. Get out of the cold immediately if you think you may be experiencing any signs of frostbite. Frostbitten skin should never be rubbed or massaged; doing so can cause tissue damage. Try to warm the area with intense heat, always keep your hands and feet properly covered when going outdoors in the cold for any long periods of time.

-Hypothermia is when the bodies temperature drops below the normal temperature of 98.6 degrees. The first signs of hypothermia is severe shivering, slurred speech, or difficulties walking. The second stage of hypothermia is unconsciousness; followed by cardiac arrest and then death. If you think you may be suffering from hypothermia get indoors quickly; you need to regain any lost body heat by staying warm. To rewarm the body it needs to be done gradually; you do not want to enlarge any blood vessels at the surface of the body which will cause too much blood flow to your vital organs. Medical attention is always required when you are suffering from hypothermia.

-Walking in the cold and knowing the proper precautions can help save you from frostbite or hypothermia. Remember to dress in layers; wear a hat and cover as much skin that may be exposed as possible. Prevent any over perspiration; you want to stay warm

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