Cold weather affects everyone Published Jan. 13, 2012 By Mike Woods 90th Missile Wing Safety F. E. WARREN AIR FORCE BASE, Wyo. -- Individuals tolerate cold weather differently. If one goes to Las Vegas during the winter, where the average daily temperature can be in the 50s, this fact can be observed. Walking down the street, one can immediately tell what region people come from. Those bundled up in heavy coats, scarves and wool hats are locals; those wearing light jackets come from somewhere with a little colder climate; those wearing tank tops, shorts and flip flops are from even colder areas. But, Cheyenne, Wyo., is not Las Vegas. Last month, temperatures were below freezing with wind chills causing the temperature to fall below zero. Yet, children at bus stops could be seen wearing inadequate clothing to protect themselves from cold weather. Some adults could also be seen wearing shorts. Regardless of whether one's cold tolerance is high or low, the danger of cold injuries is the same for everyone. Hypothermia can kill. This is when the body's core temperature drops too low. Frostnip and frostbite occur when warm blood does not reach one's extremities and can result in the loss of fingers, toes, ears, noses and other exposed body parts. The problem is that it is hard to tell one is in danger of suffering a cold injury. Most people usually find out after it is too late. So, it is best to prevent the cold injury in the first place. · Fingers, toes, tip of the nose and ears are susceptible to frostnip and frostbite. Most body heat is lost from one's head. Wearing a hat, scarf, gloves and insulated socks or boots is vital to protecting oneself from cold injuries. · Wear several layers of light and loosely fitted clothing. Layered clothing provides better protection than one bulky or heavy garment because it provides air space for trapping body heat. · Always take winter clothing when traveling whether it is needed or not. When traveling in rural areas bring a survival or cold weather travel kit. · Stay dry. Wet clothing is useless as insulation. In fact it has just the opposite effect. Wear an outer layer of water resistant clothing. · Limit exposure as much as possible. This is not always easy. But, if one can take breaks in a warm area to let his or her body and skin recover, it will go a long way in preventing cold injuries. For more safety tips during the winter months call the safety office at 773-2430.