Safety tips for enduring freezing temps

Emergency Medical Services Authorities (EMSA) were busy Wednesday morning responding to more than 20 911 calls about people who were slipping and falling. Paramedics say they took 22 patients to metro hospitals.

EMSA Spokesperson Adam Paluka says these falls can start with a twisted ankle, but if you are outside long enough, it can turn into something detrimental.  

He says there are two levels of cold exposure: frostbite and hypothermia. Frostbites can be treated easily by warming up, but hypothermia is much more concerning.   

“Hypothermia is when your body starts shutting down because your body is exposed to the cold temperatures and an added component to the moisture. Anytime you are wet or perspiration outside in these temperatures, that is going to accelerate hypothermia setting in,” said Paluka.  

He recommends that those planning to be outside for long periods, and those working up a sweat have an extra set of clothing.

Paluka says, “Sweat is going to act just like water, and if it is not removed from your body, it can help hypothermia set in and hypothermia can lead to death if not caught early.” 

Paluka also recommends wearing shoes with grip and traction to help prevent falls. He says most falls happen within 100 feet of people walking from their front door to check their mail or walk their dogs. He adds walking on grass and mulch may be easier than walking on concrete.   

Lastly, he urges people to keep their cell phones charged and carry them outside, even for short trips, in case of an emergency.