With the recent record low temperatures seen around the country, heading outside is certainly a bone-chilling and potentially dangerous experience. At least 40 people in the United States have died from weather-related causes this winter so far, with countless others injured from other mishaps. To know how to stay safe from whatever this winter will bring, read on.

Frostbite is a common condition that can affect a person in cold temperatures. Frostbite is the freezing of skin due to exposure to the cold which causes the skin to lose blood circulation, resulting in a lack of oxygen. Fingers, toes, ears, cheeks, and other extremities far from the heart are the most commonly affected.

To treat frostbite, take off wet clothes, and don’t walk on frostbitten feet and toes. Warm frostbitten areas in warm water, or if no water is present, cup hands and breathe through them onto the affected area. Bandage the frostbitten area and do not let it refreeze. Be sure to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

In freezing temperatures, a body can lose heat faster than it can produce heat. The result is hypothermia, or abnormally low body temperature. Common signs are sleepiness, confusion, and clumsiness. It happens gradually and affects thinking, thus it may not be recognized immediately.

To treat hypothermia, you must first warm the trunk of the body, as warming the extremities first can cause shock. Wrap the person in blankets, do not immerse in warm water as it can cause shock. Drink something warm, non-caffeinated, and alcohol-free, and be sure to seek medical attention immediately.

To prevent both hypothermia and frostbite, be sure to bundle up in layers and dress warmly for the conditions outside. Outdoor guru Craig Vohwinkle says that, “Mittens are better than glove at keeping your hands warm.” Along with mittens, be sure to put on a jacket and hat and don’t stay outside for too long.

The daily endeavor of driving can become dangerous in snowy and icy conditions. Most traffic accidents occur during the winter, and it’s important to keep an even more careful eye on the road in terrible weather. Before you even step in a car, be sure to clear it of all ice and snow, as you can be ticketed for driving an unsafe vehicle. Also pay close attention to the road as you drive. It can take up to ten times longer to brake with snow and ice on the road, and remember that speed limits are set for optimum driving conditions. Take your time, as it’s better to show up a few minutes late rather than get into a car accident.
Walking can also be a serious hazard. Slips and falls can result in bruises, sprains, and even broken bones. Sophomore Laura Ernst tells, “I fractured my wrist in two place after slipping on ice. It doesn’t seem that serious, but it is as I now can’t do a lot of what I used to be able to.” To walk safely in slippery conditions, be sure to take short, slow steps, wear appropriate shoes, and pay attention to the ground you’re walking on. Try to avoid all black, wet spots, as it could be black ice. With only a gust of wind, a little snow can cover icy paths in minutes and create a slippery surface, so try to stay off snow-covered areas or just walk slowly.

The snow-covered landscape may look beautiful, but has some nasty surprises in store for those not prepared.