Winter: How to Deal with Falls and Frostbite
We can finally say that winter has arrived in Quebec! A beautiful white blanket now covers the province, allowing us to enjoy all the incredible winter activities: skating, sledding, walking, snowmobiling, skiing, snowshoeing, etc. Any opportunity is good to get some fresh air! However, while having fun, be vigilant; it is not uncommon to slip and fall or even suffer from frostbite after a day outside.
What to do when you fall?
In winter, it is not uncommon to slip on an icy patch. Often, there is more fear than harm. However, in case you fall, do not rush to get up. Take the time to analyze your situation. Are you unharmed? Do you have a sprain? Maybe a fracture?
To get up, first lie on your side and bend the leg on top to help you get up on your elbows or hands. If you are alone, use your strongest leg to slide and sit in the snow. Collect yourself before continuing on your way.
If you are unable to get up due to a severe injury, make sure you are safe and call out to a passerby or car for assistance. Call 911.
If you witness a fall, offer your help and do not rush the person to get up.
When going outside, have warm boots with non-slip rubber soles. Adding crampons to your shoes is also an option to consider when planning to walk on snow and ice.
How to take care of frostbite?
Frostbite is common during winter, hence the importance of dressing warmly! Frostbite is skin damage that occurs when the body is exposed to cold temperatures. The body areas most often affected are mainly the ears, nose, cheeks, fingers, and toes. Frostbite is indeed present when the skin is numb, there is a lack of sensitivity, the skin is cold and white, and a redness forms around the affected area. In more extreme cases, the skin becomes hard to the touch, and blisters can form.
To treat frostbite, it is important to remove wet or damp clothing and apply a dry bandage to the affected area. Cover the person and gradually warm the frostbite to avoid thermal shock. Also, remember not to use hot water and not to rub the affected area, as this could cause further damage to the skin.
Of course, we wish you a winter without incidents, but now you are equipped in case it happens to you. Now, go enjoy this beautiful snow!