This text is part of the special book Plaisirs
The holiday season is a golden opportunity to get together with family or friends outdoors to enjoy the magic of the white landscapes. But beware of frostbite, these ailments caused by the cold that can appear much faster than you think, but which are avoidable. To have fun outdoors safely, here are some tips and tricks.
Frostbite, what is it? This is a lesion that appears when the skin freezes and blood no longer circulates in the tissues. It can manifest itself in several forms, such as redness, extreme pallor, swelling, numbness, burning sensation or even tingling, and on several parts of the body. Fingers, toes, cheeks, ears and nose are the areas most at risk.
In case of frostbite, it is advisable to go inside to shelter from the cold, to pass the affected limbs under lukewarm water, avoiding friction, and to drink water.
Go out covered
The first thing to do when planning to spend time outdoors is to dress appropriately, wearing several layers — at least three — of clothing that can be removed or added one at a time as needed. For the upper body, it can be, for example, a tank top, a sweater, a duvet or a vest and a parka. As for the legs, woolen tights, long underwear and ski pants are recommended. Note that many ready-to-wear brands and specialty stores offer ranges of thermal clothing to retain the heat that the body gives off.
In case of perspiration, do not delay in disposing of an element, because humidity is a factor favoring frostbite. It is also forbidden to wear clothes that are too tight, which prevent good blood circulation.
And why not bring a big, cozy blanket to wrap yourself in, just in case?
From head to toes
Once dressed warmly, we must not forget the extremities of the body and the head, which are particularly vulnerable to the cold. So, to start off on the right foot, it’s a good idea to wear lined and waterproof boots, again not too tight, to allow your feet to breathe and stay warm in all circumstances. Montreal brands such as Anfibio and Maguire offer different models adapted to the Quebec climate, to individual tastes and to various activities. In addition, merino wool stockings are preferred for comfort and softness.
Then it’s best to choose mitts over gloves, but it’s good to know that it’s the material that counts. Leather is therefore to be avoided in favor of wool and fleece. Note that there are hand warmers that you can also slip discreetly into your pockets…
For scarves and toques, the choice is endless. However, it is necessary to ensure that the ears, forehead and neck are not bare and that the scarves can possibly cover the nose. Local companies such as Heirloom, Mamé or Odeyalo offer quality and elegant models.
A well-filled thermos
It is important not to leave for long hours outdoors on an empty stomach! Spending time outdoors and in the cold requires enough energy to allow the body to regulate its temperature.
It is also quite appropriate to bring a snack, a good quantity of water and a hot drink, such as herbal tea (you can find tasty ones at Camellia Sinensis), hot chocolate (classic, spicy or maple from Avanaa) or even a homemade soup — which will warm the body and the heart for sure! Be careful, however, not to consume alcohol and tobacco, which can cause a drop in body temperature.
Caution and Vigilance
Before leaving the house to join loved ones outside, it is essential to make sure that the weather conditions are not bad and that heated places sheltered from the wind are nearby. The wind factor is therefore to be taken into account, because it is often responsible for unexpected cold snaps and, therefore, frostbite.
Moving, playing and walking in good company is an excellent idea, but intense physical exertion should be avoided.
This special content was produced by the Special Publications team of the To have to, pertaining to marketing. The drafting of To have to did not take part.