It's been some time since I can remember the bitterly frigid temperatures we have been experiencing this winter. As the temperatures plummet it is very important to take special care to protect yourself when you are going to be outside even for only a short period of time. When temperatures drop and wind speed increases, heat leaves your body more rapidly. The body's natural response to cold exposure is to use energy to protect its' core. The body will shift its' blood flow from your extremities (hand, arms, feet and legs) and outer skin to try to maintain the body's core (chest/abdomen) temperature. It is that shift that allows your exposed skin and extremities to cool rapidly.
Most people, especially individuals who work outside, have learned to properly layer to provide protection but even the slightest lowering of temperature can lead to a condition known as cold stress. Cold stress can occur without initially being noticed. Cold stress is an umbrella term that describes those various cold related illness (hypothermia, frostbite trench foot, and chilblain) hat occur when working in cold/wet conditions.
Learn more about the symptoms, treatments and prevention of cold stress conditions "
Cold Weather Casualties and Injuries Chart".
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