With this bitter cold, the Renfrew County and District Health Unit has some reminders to keep people safe.
Stay in heated buildings as much as possible, and if you have to go outside, dress IN LAYERS with a hat and warm mitts. Cover up exposed skin since frostbite can occur within minutes.
Drink warm fluids but avoid caffeinated or alcoholic ones, as they make you lose heat faster.
And KNOW the weather forecast and avoid travelling when extreme weather is predicted.
SIGNS of hypothermia include shivering, exhaustion, confusion and slurred speech.
And SIGNS of frostbite include white/grayish skin, and skin that feels unusually firm or waxy, or numbness.
Also remember YOUR PETS…don’t leave them outside for very long.
This frigid weather can be dangerous…so be careful.
(Written by Loreena Dickson)