Working in Extreme Cold Conditions: How to Prevent Hypothermia

By Sam Hihn on Jan 07, 2025
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From blizzards to icy roads and bone-chilling winds, winter weather in Kansas City can be relentless. Add dangerously cold temperatures to the mix, and it’s not just inconvenient—it’s life-threatening for people and animals alike. Hypothermia and frostbite are serious risks during these harsh conditions, but with awareness and preparation, you'll know how to prevent hypothermia and can protect yourself and your team.

What Is Hypothermia?

Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature drops to dangerously low levels, often caused by prolonged exposure to cold or wet conditions. It can lead to severe illness and even death if untreated.

Frostbite, on the other hand, affects unprotected skin, causing tissue damage that can range from mild to permanent. Both are preventable with the right precautions.

Axcet’s Safety Tip: Be Prepared

At Axcet, our team of safety and health consultants emphasizes the importance of preparation and training when considering how to prevent hypothermia. Employers should:

Monitor dangerous weather forecasts.
Train employees on recognizing hypothermia and frostbite symptoms and have a thorough understanding of appropriate treatment.
Implement comprehensive cold weather safety programs.

Worker safety should always be a top concern—especially during extreme weather events.

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Signs of Hypothermia

Being able to identify hypothermia is crucial. Symptoms are categorized by severity:

Symptoms of MILD hypothermia include:

Difficulty breathing
Fumbling fingers; trouble with the use of hands
A sense of discomfort or pain

What to Do:

Move to a warm area
Change into dry clothes
Drink warm (not hot) fluids.

Symptoms of MODERATE/SEVERE hypothermia include:

Dilated pupils
Confusion
Shallow breathing
Blue or clammy skin
Fatigue
Loss of consciousness

What to Do:

Call 911 immediately—this is a medical emergency
Remove wet clothing and wrap the individual in warm blankets
Provide warm (not hot) liquids if the person is conscious
Avoid direct heat sources like hot water bottles or hairdryers, as these can cause complications

How To Prevent Hypothermia

Prevention is always the best approach. Follow these tips to stay safe when heading outdoors:

Dress in Layers

Cover all exposed skin with hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated clothing.

Fuel Your Body

Eat snacks and drink warm, non-alcoholic, sweet beverages to maintain energy.

Avoid Overexertion

Sweating can accelerate heat loss—pace yourself.

Stay Dry

Wet clothing significantly increases the risk of hypothermia.

Prepare for Emergencies

Keep your car stocked with blankets, extra clothes, non-perishable snacks, and a full gas tank.

Following these guidelines will help you retain your body heat, reducing the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.

Stay Warm and Stay Safe

Protecting yourself and your employees during Kansas City’s harsh winter weather requires awareness, preparation and the right tools. By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps, you can reduce the dangers of hypothermia and frostbite and keep everyone safe.

Need help creating a comprehensive cold-weather safety program? Axcet HR Solutions specializes in workplace safety and compliance. Schedule a consultation today to keep your team protected this winter.

Written by Sam Hihn

Related Resources

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Working in Extreme Cold Conditions: How to Prevent Hypothermia

What Is Hypothermia?

Axcet’s Safety Tip: Be Prepared