High wind chills prompts EMS to issue warning
Posted Jan 29, 2013 11:55 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
With a big drop in the temperature, Calgary EMS is reminding people to make sure they are bundled up before heading outdoors because windchill values are on the dangerous side.
“Whether you need to be out working, or you’re out commuting or it is for recreation — whatever you may be doing — ensure that you definitely have a wind-breaking layer as well as some internal warmer layers that keep the heat in,” EMS spokesman Stuart Brideaux tells 660News. “But as well, anything that can keep exposed skin covered is going to be very, very crucial. One of the greatest concerns, other than just the cooler air temperatures, is the wind. That has some of the greatest effect on heat loss for people when they’re out and about.”
If you’re working or playing outside, Brideaux adds that you should take frequent breaks to warm up, and make sure your clothing doesn’t get wet.
Brideaux says the good thing about this latest cold snap is it’s not going to last too long.
During the last bitter cold spell over Christmas, paramedics responded to a handful of calls, most of them a result of people either not being dressed properly or drinking a little too much alcohol before heading outside.
660 Meteorologist David Spence notes that wind chills north and east of the city will hit the -40’s. If you’re hitting the highways, he notes that wind will also lead to blowing snow on the highways.
It was so cold Tuesday morning that Canada Olympic Park announced it was shutting down at noon, and re-opening Wednesday morning.
