Photo by Daniel Bowman on Unsplash
Cold Weather Safety Tips
- Avoid being outside during the coldest part of the day, or for extended periods of time in extreme cold weather
- Dress in layers
- Wear a hat, scarf and gloves/mittens
- Wear waterproof, insulated boots to avoid hypothermia or frostbite
- Get out of wet clothes as soon as possible
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol if you will be staying outside
Hypothermia
Hypothermia is a medical emergency that happens when your body loses heat faster than it can produce heat, causing a dangerously low body temperature. Normal body temperature is about 98.6 F, and hypothermia occurs when your body temperature drops below 95 F.
Symptoms of hypothermia are:
- Confusion
- Dizziness
- Exhaustion
- Severe shivering
- Clumsiness and lack of coordination
- Slurred speech or mumbling
- Drowsiness or very low energy
- Weak pulse
- Slow, shallow breathing
- Progressive loss of consciousness
Seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
Due to the rain and cold temperatures, especially in South Santa Clara County areas, the County Office of Supportive Housing is securing additional after-hours shelter beds for people experiencing homelessness. Call 408-278-6420 for help or to direct someone in need of assistance.