Expert Tips for Staying Safe in Extreme Cold Weather - Don’t Get Caught Unprepared!

As frigid temperatures sweep across the region, Dr. Marshall Leonard from Stony Brook Medicine is here to offer crucial advice for safely enjoying the winter weather. With the potential for dangerous conditions looming, being informed is your best defense.

Doctors assert that outdoor activities are still safe, provided that individuals take the necessary precautions. Many locals were seen taking advantage of the cold on a recent Sunday at Syosset-Woodbury Community Park, engaging in winter favorites like ice skating, sledding, and snowboarding.

Gabriel Chung from Syosset shared, “Today we went sledding down the hill and we were walking our dog around the park. We’re staying warm by wearing a lot of clothes and using hand warmers.” Chris Breen from East Norwich emphasized the importance of proper gear, saying, “Just the gear. It’s all about the gear. It’s fine to be outside as long as you have the good gear.”

So what should you do before venturing out? Dr. Leonard recommends dressing in layers and prioritizing warming up indoors whenever possible. He explains that our bodies have a natural defense mechanism which activates shivering to generate heat when we get too cold. While this is a normal response, it can signal that you’re not properly insulated against the cold.

The doctor cautions about the risks of prolonged exposure without adequate clothing, which can lead to frostbite—a condition where tissue freezes, often affecting fingers and toes. Symptoms to watch for include tingling sensations or numbness.

Dr. Leonard also highlights the more serious risk of hypothermia, which occurs when the body cannot produce enough heat and loses too much. “Your body starts decreasing in temperature, and that’s what really hypothermia is," he explains.

In addition to personal preparations, he urges individuals to look out for one another. Checking on neighbors, especially the elderly or those living alone, can ensure that everyone stays warm and safe during these cold spells.

Remember, winter can be both beautiful and treacherous—be smart, stay warm, and enjoy the season safely!