5 Tips to Stay Safe and Healthy in the Cold and Snow

Snow is finally falling in the St. Louis region, and with what little snow we've had this season, it's a good time for a refresher on some important tips to stay safe and healthy in the snow and in extreme cold:

1. Protect Your Kids from Frostbite

Frostbite is a concern when kids are playing outside in the winter — or even if they’re waiting at the bus stop. “Parents should listen to their kids, especially if they’re hurting from the cold,” says Bo Kennedy, MD, an emergency medicine physician at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, in "Tips for a Safe and Fun Winter". He advises dressing in layers of synthetic material such as long underwear made with polypropylene and keeping exposed parts to a minimum. Take off wet clothes as soon as possible, or better yet, wear waterproof clothes, boots and gloves. Make sure there’s wiggle room in boots for circulation.

2. Drive Slow

This may seem obvious, but the Missouri Department of Transportation stresses the importance of smart driving during a storm. MODOT suggests reducing your speed by at least one-half of the speed limit. When the roads are wet, reduce your speed by at least one-third of the speed limit.

3. If You Get Caught, Stay Put

The National Weather Service suggests that if you get caught in the snow in your car, stay there. Disorientation occurs quickly in wind-driven snow and cold. Run the motor about ten minutes each hour for heat. Also, open the window a little for fresh air to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning and make sure the exhaust pipe is not blocked.

4. Follow the Plows

Another tip from MODOT: The safest place to be on the roads is behind a snow plow, but be sure to stay at least 100 feet behind them and don't pass or drive beside them.

5. Know the Signs of Frostbite

The first sign of frostbite is burning pain. As frostbite progresses, the area affected will feel numb. The key is to warm the area as soon as possible. “When warming the area, don’t add a burn injury by using water that is too hot,” Kennedy cautions. “Put warm water in a bowl and test the temperature. And don’t rub the area. It’s a myth that you should rub the area with snow. That will further damage the skin.” If normal skin color does not return in one hour, call your doctor or go to the ER.