Winter First Aid: Staying Safe and Warm During Cold Weather

Whether you love it or hate it, winter brings with it a number of health and safety considerations. As winters get increasingly cold, the importance of proper preparation becomes even greater. Get ready for outdoor activities with appropriate first aid provisions and take precautions to stay warm whenever you face the elements.

Here are some considerations to ensure you and your first aid kit are ready for winter:
 

Be prepared for the cold winter ahead

The most obvious and important thing to consider during the cold winter months is staying warm wherever you are. Wear many layers when going outside, ideally materials like wool or fleecy synthetic fibres (cotton loses its ability to insulate and saps body heat when wet). You should also wear a hat, coat, scarf, gloves and warm boots or shoes when it’s especially cold. If you have a heart or respiratory problem, try to avoid going outside during really cold periods.

If you can, keep the temperature in your home above 18°C using a heater or fireplace. Try to heat all the rooms you enter frequently throughout the day, but if that isn’t possible, try to keep at least your living room warm and heat your bedroom before bed.

Finally, eating a nutritious, warm meal like soup at least once a day helps to keep you healthy and warm during the cold winter months.  

The effects of the UK cost of living crisis

As the cost of energy continues to rise rapidly in the UK, it’s becoming increasingly difficult for people to stay warm during the winter.

Using your heating intelligently and taking a few measures to reduce your energy bill can help you get through winter safely. To save energy, set your heating to turn on before you wake up and turn off when you go to bed. When it’s particularly cold out, set your heating to turn on earlier instead of turning up the thermostat.

You should also make sure you’re aware of what government assistance is available to you. There are benefits and grants to help with bills and advice for making your home as energy efficient as possible. Find out about benefits and financial support for living costs and more ways to save energy in your home from GOV.UK.
 

Cold and flu prevention during winter

Taking precautions to keep warm during the winter helps to prevent colds and the flu and can even help to prevent more serious health problems like strokes, heart attacks, pneumonia and depression. Read our blog on how to avoid colds and viruses to find out more about safe hygiene practices.

Some people are more at risk in cold weather. These are:

• Low-income individuals
• Individuals with a disability
• Those suffering from long-term health conditions
• People over the age of 65
• Children under the age of 5
• Those with a mental health condition
• Pregnant people

If you're part of an at-risk group, it's important to seek medical assistance as soon as you feel unwell.

Get your vaccinations

With the winter comes an increased risk of the flu and COVID-19. It’s

Ice and heavy snow can make it difficult or even dangerous to get from point A to B, whether walking, cycling or driving. The chance of slipping or skidding increases during the winter season – taking appropriate precautions helps to reduce the risk of injury when facing the elements.
 

1. Plan ahead

Heavy snow affects roads and footpaths, and traffic moves more slowly in risky driving conditions. If it’s possible, try not to travel during periods of extreme weather.

If you can’t avoid travelling, plan your route and allow yourself extra travel time to ensure you get to your destination safely. Check for delays or road closures and check your car’s wipers, tyres and screen wash before setting off.
 

2. Drive safely in heavy snow

It’s safer to avoid driving altogether in heavy snow and icy conditions. If driving is a necessity, accelerate gently, use low revs and maintain a steady and constant speed. Start in second gear to alleviate skidding, and shift to higher gears as quickly as possible.

Maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, keep a steady speed while going uphill, and use a low gear when going downhill. If you find yourself skidding, steer into the skid, keep your hands on the wheel, and do not slam the brakes.
 

3. Dress appropriately when walking

Dress warmly and wear shoes designed for walking in snow. Rubber or neoprene soles provide better traction than soles made from plastic or leather. Avoid heels if possible, opting for shoes with a flat bottom. Cleats or abrasive soles designed for walking on snow and ice are recommended for extreme weather.
 

4. Use special care when entering/leaving vehicles and buildings

Exit vehicles and buildings carefully, using handles and railings for support when available. If you’re climbing into a car, use caution as you shift your weight and hold onto the car for support. Try to avoid putting your hands in your pockets as your arms can help you to keep balanced.
 

5. Walk safely and use designated walkways if possible

Bend forward slightly and take short steps, keeping your centre of gravity directly above your feet as much as you can. Stick to designated pathways, always look ahead while walking, and avoid checking your phone.

If you can’t avoid falling, try not to stretch out your arms to brace yourself – relax and fall on fleshy places like your thighs and buttocks, bend your head forward to avoid hitting it, and try to roll as you hit the ground to spread the impact.
 

Can you use an AED in the cold?

As with any electronic device, extreme weather can affect the usability of an AED. The cold can weaken the power of an AED’s battery and affect the adhesive pads’ ability to stick. Proper storage is essential to ensuring that AEDs are in working condition whenever they are required.

Most AEDs have an operating temperature range of between 0°C and 50°C. Each AED is different, however, so you should check your device’s operations manual to find out its operating temperature range. To ensure your AED is kept at operating temperature, store it in an insulated case, an appropriate outdoor cabinet, or inside if possible.

To learn more about AEDs, check out our blog on everything you need to know about Automated External Defibrillators.
 

Frostbite

Frostbite is damage to the skin and body tissue caused by extended exposure to extreme cold, typically temperatures below 0°C. It can affect any body part, but is most common in extremities like the fingers, the toes, the nose or the face.

If left untreated, frostbite can permanently damage the affected area, so prevention or immediate medical intervention is important. Here are some early symptoms of frostbite:

• Pins and needles in the affected area
• Numbness of the skin
• Skin that is hard and waxy to the touch
• Stiffness in the muscles or joints
• Discoloured skin

Prevent frostbite by wearing appropriate cold-weather gear when you know you’ll be spending extended periods outdoors in extreme temperatures. Limit the time you spend outside in cold and wet weather when possible.

To treat frostbite, bring the victim to a warm environment as quickly as possible. Do not rub or apply pressure to the affected area. If possible, leave the rewarming of the frostbitten area to a healthcare professional — if not, a bath at 37°C - 39°C is recommended. Strong painkillers are also recommended, as the process of rewarming can be painful.
 

Hypothermia

Hypothermia is the state in which your body loses heat faster than it can generate it, signified by a drop in body temperature to below 35°C. It is a medical emergency and needs to be treated in a hospital by medical professionals.

Hypothermia affects your body’s ability to function — your heart, nervous system and other major organs function less effectively. If untreated, hypothermia will lead to total organ failure and death. Here are the symptoms to watch out for:

• Severe shivering
• Cold and dry skin
• Lethargy, confusion and slurred speech
• Slow and shallow breaths

Prevent hypothermia by taking the proper precautions to keep your body warm. Wear appropriate cold-weather clothing including hats and mittens and incorporate layers of warm materials like wool. Avoid swimming in very cold water or taking part in activities that induce sweating while in the cold.

Call emergency medical services immediately if you suspect someone is suffering from hypothermia. While you’re waiting for help: 

• Move the affected person indoors as quickly as possible
• Remove any wet clothes and wrap them in a dry towel or blanket (ensuring that their head is covered)
• Give them a warm drink and sugary foods like chocolate
• Keep them awake by staying with them and talking until help arrives

Do not:

• Warm the victim with a hot bath, hot water bottle or heat lamp
• Do not rub their limbs or extremities
• Do not give them alcohol

 

Takeaway

Winter can be a wonderous season for festivities and outdoor activities but staying aware of the potential risks is paramount. Ensure your first aid kits are appropriately stocked and refresh your knowledge on treating potential cold-weather injuries, and you’ll be ready for any situation.

Read our other blogs for more information on first aid or contact us for further advice and information on our products.

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About the author:

Jo Stokes is a writer, marketer and trained first aider at First Aid Online.
Find out more about Jo.