With the expected arrival of an intense cold spell in the region, the Department of Public Health and Population Responsibility (DSPRP) of the Integrated University Health and Social Services Center of the Mauricie-et-du-Centre-du- Quebec (CIUSSS MCQ) wishes to provide information and recommendations to the population to protect themselves and take full advantage of the winter period.
The cold can cause significant health effects
Prolonged exposure to cold can pose a significant risk of frostbite or hypothermia. Vigilance is particularly important for infants, young children, the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, homeless people and those who work outdoors.
Frostbite can occur as quickly as 5 to 10 minutes of exposure to cold. They often affect the extremities of the body such as the ears, nose, cheeks, chin, fingers and toes. Lesions are similar to those caused by burns. The signs to look out for are: very red or white color of the skin, hard skin to the touch, numbness, numbness. In the event of frostbite, it is important to warm up and contact Info-Santé at 811 to find out the appropriate first aid for yourself or the person affected.
Hypothermia occurs, for its part, when the body temperature drops below 35°C (normal body temperature 37°C). Below this temperature, the body is no longer able to function normally. This situation can lead to coma and even death. The signs to look out for are: feeling cold, chills, persistent shivering, jerky speech, feeling euphoric or drunk, disorientation, confusion, loss of judgment, difficulty walking and tendency to stumble. Hypothermia is an emergency situation, so call 911 quickly.
Simple tips to protect yourself from the cold
During a period of extreme cold, the DSPRP recommends that the population:
Dress warmly, in several layers, covering as many parts of the body as possible, without forgetting the extremities;
Avoid getting your clothes wet;
Stay dry;
Limit the duration of outdoor activities and intense physical activities outdoors;
Find out about road conditions before you travel;
Monitor the warning signs (mentioned above) relating to frostbite and hypothermia and contact 811 Info-Santé for recommendations;
Check in on loved ones, especially those living alone.
Watch out for carbon monoxide poisoning
Extreme cold accentuates the use of propane, wood or oil heating appliances. These devices, if faulty, poorly maintained or used in an enclosed area, can produce a significant amount of carbon monoxide. This gas, odorless, colorless and tasteless (cannot be tasted), can cause serious and potentially fatal poisoning. Only a carbon monoxide alarm can detect its presence. If you experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, fatigue, nausea or if a buzzer sounds, it is important to quickly leave the premises and dial 911.
When using a fuel burning appliance:
Carry out good maintenance (e.g. sweep the chimney, have the furnace checked by a specialist);
Never use a generator, camping stove, barbecue inside your home or garage;
Make sure the room is well ventilated;
Install carbon monoxide alarms.
For more information, visit the following website: https://www.quebec.ca/sante/conseils-et-prevention/sante-et-environnement/prevenir-les-effets-du-froid/.