To many, the first snow of the season feels like a winter wonderland. But below-freezing temps and icy roads and walkway can turn outdoors into a nightmare. The Truman Medical Center emergency department was pretty quiet Tuesday, but the medical staff do expect that to change in the next 24 hours.
“Some of the things we see are people who are exposed to the cold, so people who have been outside and come in with lower body temperatures or hypothermia,” explained Dr. Kevin O’Rouke, a physician in the emergency room. “We can see frostbite due to the cold weather. If it gets icy out, we definitely see a lot of slips and falls, people trying to catch themselves. Also, car accidents that are usually lower speed rear ends or with multiple cars in the ice and snow.”
Another culprit -- space heaters. They can cause serious burns and worse, so Dr. O'Rouke recommends not using them if you have other alternatives. Also, he said to never use an oven to heat your home. This can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning which is deadly.
Dr. O’Rouke’s tips:
- If you are outside and shivering, or if your fingers or feet feel numb, you are already experiencing the early stages of hypothermia and frostbite. Get inside to prevent permanent damage.
- To avoid slips and falls, to wear proper footwear, and even slip on spikes like these. Also salt your driveway and sidewalk.
- And as far as car accidents are concerned -- proceed with caution and be sure to leave enough space between you and the cars around you.
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