Winter Clothing and Frost Bite

Winter Clothing and Frost Bite

Workmen should realize that most of their work is out of doors and should dress accordingly.

Clothing should be warm but not bulky enough to retard movement. A suit of insulated under wear is recommended. Outer clothing should be of a type that can be easily removed if the workman gets too warm.

Sturdy weatherproof boots or shoes should be worn in cold weather. Two pairs of medium weight socks are usually better than one pair of heavy socks. During winter months, the work man should expect snow, mud, and slushy conditions, and should have his overshoes available to protect himself against wet feet.

Hard hats with winter liners should be adequate protection against weather and accidents.

The best way to warm excessively cold portions of the body is to remove covering of those parts and apply heat. For example, remove gloves and apply heat to gloves and hands; remove shoes and apply heat to shoes and feet; making sure socks are dry.

Frost Bite

Symptoms:

• At first skin becomes slightly flushed.

• Then skin may become white or grayish-yellow.

• Blisters may appear later.

• Pain is sometimes felt early, but there is often no pain at all. But there would be a cold numb feeling.

First Aid:

• Do not rub the frozen parts with snow or hand.

• Cover the frozen part with extra clothing.

• Bring victim indoors as soon as possible.

• Give victim a warm drink.

• Quickly rewarm the frozen parts by immersing in water at body temperature. Do not use hot water.

• Handle frozen part with great care.

• Do not use hot water bottles, heat lamps or place a frozen part near a hot stove.

• Do not disturb blisters. Lightly bandage blisters if possible.