View From the Legislature

As the Minister for Health, Seniors and Active Living, I’d like to remind you to be careful over the next few weeks and to be mindful of the colder temperatures outside that our province is known for and that we have been experiencing over the past few weeks. Exposure to cold can result in health problems such as frostbite or hypothermia, which can be life-threatening and anyone who isn’t dressed for the cold weather is at risk.

The health effects of cold can be reduced by: dressing in multiple layers and covering exposed skin; wearing wool, silk or polypropylene inner layers of clothing (they hold more body heat than cotton); wearing waterproof and windproof outer layers; choosing warm mittens instead of gloves; never leaving infants and young children unattended, and ensuring they are dressed appropriately; having a buddy when enjoying winter weather activities who can offer immediate assistance in an emergency; avoiding alcohol consumption before going out in the cold. Alcohol increases the risk of hypothermia by contributing to heat loss.

Watch for symptoms of cold-related illness such as: discoloured skin; tingling, burning sensation, or numbness to exposed areas; uncontrollable shivering, drowsiness or exhaustion, confusion, or slurred speech. Infants may have very low energy and bright red cold skin. A person with severe hypothermia may be unconscious and may not seem to have a pulse or to be breathing. If emergency medical care is needed for someone who may have frostbite or hypothermia, move them to a warm place if you can, and call for help. Take action to stay safe in extreme cold: check the weather report before going outside and prepare accordingly; warm up by taking regular breaks in heated buildings; bring pets and other animals inside or to sheltered areas with non-frozen drinking water; reschedule outdoor activities and/or limit time outdoors if severe weather is forecast; and stay on the approved paths when participating in outdoor activities. Check road conditions before you go out by calling Manitoba Highways at 511 or visiting manitoba511.ca.

Winterize your vehicle by keeping your gas tank full, using winter tires and keeping a well-stocked winter safety kit in your car. Visit: getprepared.gc.ca. If stranded, remain in your vehicle if possible until help is available. Avoid driving or traveling by car in bad weather or when roads are very slippery. For more information on cold and health, call Health Links–Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or 1-888-315-9257 (toll-free) or visit: gov.mb.ca or hc-sc.gc.ca.