Winter Tips from Health Link

Tips to Prevent Frostbite and Hypothermia

Parents: Preparing Children for Cold Weather

• Check weather forecasts to anticipate clothing needs throughout the day.
• Choose play areas with warm shelters nearby.
• Teach children the signs of frostbite and hypothermia and the importance of dressing warmly.
• Remember that the windchill factor – wind plus freezing temperatures – means it may be a lot colder than the thermometer says. Skin freezes much more quickly when the windchill factor is high.

Kids: Wear the Gear

• Dress in layers of clothing. If you get too warm, you can take off one layer at a time.
• Wear a hat. Most of our body heat is lost through our heads.
• To prevent frostbite – keep ears covered, wear mittens instead of gloves, and wear warm, waterproof boots.

Other Winter Safety Tips for Parents and Kids

• To prevent clothing related strangulation, wear neck warmers instead of scarves and remove all drawstrings from clothing.
• Keep sidewalks clear of snow and ice.
• Cars and trucks take longer to stop on snow and ice. Before crossing the road, be sure all vehicles have come to a complete stop.
• Ensure children never put their tongues on cold metal.
• Snow forts can be fun but building tunnels can be dangerous, tunnels may collapse and suffocate a child.
• Young children should be well supervised when they play outside.