With extreme cold weather gripping Quebec this weekend, officials are warning of a risk of frostbite and other cold-related health effects. Frostbite occurs when skin exposed to very cold conditions begins to freeze, leading to serious injury if not treated quickly. The ears, nose, cheeks, fingers and toes are most often affected. The risk of frostbite increases significantly as the wind chill index falls. Quebec health guidance notes that when the wind chill is between –28 and –39, exposed skin can begin to freeze within 10 to 30 minutes, and when the index drops below –55, frostbite can develop in as fast as two minutes. With the windchill, the weekend temperatures in Montreal are expected to feel like -37. Symptoms Symptoms of frostbite can start with numbness and tingling, followed by pale, waxy skin as freezing progresses, officials note. The Quebec government urges people to treat frostbite quickly. Otherwise, the affected area may remain sensitive to the cold for many years. In severe cases, affected tissue can become permanently damaged, and serious frostbite may require medical treatment. In the most serious cases, severe frostbite can lead to amputation. “The timeframe will be the first six to 12 hours after severe frostbites where you should have shown up in hospital. But the sooner, the better,” warns Montreal plastic surgeon Dr. Edouard Coeugniet. What to do if you have frostbite Health authorities urge people who suspect they have frostbite to contact Info-Santé at 811 immediately. While awaiting guidance, they recommend sheltering from the cold, removing any wet clothing and warming the affected areas with warm (but not hot) water. One important note: avoid rubbing the skin. “At that stage, if it doesn’t go away within several minutes, I would recommend to go into a room or somewhere and warm up with hot water,” said Dr. Coeugniet. “And if then this spot persists or transforms itself into blisters, or even in bloody blisters, then you have to go to the hospital.” Hypothermia and other cold-related conditions Cold conditions also pose a risk of hypothermia, which happens when the body’s core temperature drops below 35 C. It disables normal body functions and can lead to life-threatening complications if not treated immediately. Certain groups are at higher risk of suffering the effects of extreme cold, including frostbite and hypothermia, officials say. These include newborns and infants, people aged 65 and older, outdoor workers, people with reduced mobility or chronic illnesses such as asthma or diabetes, the homeless community and people living in poorly insulated homes. In addition to frostbite and hypothermia, extreme cold can aggravate respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, particularly for people with pre-existing health issues, the Government of Quebec notes. Prevention tips To protect against the harmful effects of cold temperatures, health officials advise ensuring home heating systems are working properly. Keep indoor temperatures at or above 19 C. READ MORE: Hydro-Québec urges conservation as cold snap pushes power demand higher Have appropriate cold-weather clothing and boots for all family members. Dress in layers and ensure key areas such as the head, nose, mouth, neck, hands and feet are well covered. Wear windproof, waterproof outer layers and boots that keep feet warm and provide traction. Do not stay outside too long without proper protection. If you must go outside, carry essentials such as a charged cell phone, water, food, blankets, a shovel, snow brush and any required medications. Stay active and take breaks in a warm, sheltered place if you need to be outdoors for an extended period. Avoid getting wet -- including sweaty, warns Dr. Coeugniet -- and if clothing becomes wet, change into dry clothes as soon as possible. “It’s a major factor of hypothermia and frostbite. Cotton, for example, is not the best material against the skin, because it absorbs, but then it keeps the moisture inside. So you need the appropriate clothing if you are doing outdoor activities. And I would even recommend, if you do outdoor activities to avoid activities which makes you sweat, in that case,” he said. Avoid alcohol and smoking, as neither helps warm the body and both can increase the risk of cold-related injury. “Another category of people who are particularly vulnerable,” warns Dr. Coeugniet, is “young people who are taking alcohol or substances after a party. At night, going out for a smoke. This should also be avoided in these times.” Pets are at risk too, SPCA warns Cold weather can also be harmful to companion animals, the Montreal SPCA says, even if they have fur coats. The animal welfare organization offers safety tips for pet owners in this extreme weather. Bring animals indoors and never leave them outside unsupervised for long periods. Consider engaging your animal with some stimulating indoor activities, such as hide-and-seek with their favourite toy or treat. For a dog, the SPCA says 15 minutes of mental stimulation can be equivalent to an hour of running in terms of energy expenditure. Protective boots can help shield sensitive paws from cold and de-icing chemicals, but they must fit properly to avoid cutting off circulation. Paw balm can also offer some relief. Keep coats healthy and dry, because a wet coat loses much of its insulating ability. Animals with short hair may benefit from added layers, such as a coat or sweater. Limit time spent outdoors during very cold weather, since frostbite can affect animals’ ears, nose, tail and toes most quickly. Watch for signs like shivering, trembling or slowed movements. Avoid letting animals lick metal poles or fences, which can cause their tongues to stick and injure them. The SPCA also suggests checking vehicle hoods before starting engines, as cats and other small animals may seek warmth under the hood during cold weather.
