Guidelines for Team Moody to combat inclement weather

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Greg Nash
  • 23d Wing Public Affairs
MOODY AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  A New Year produces an aura of optimism that promotes new opportunities, accomplishing goals for self-improvement and brings about a sense of change. With those changes also comes freezing temperatures which may not be something many individuals look forward to.

Winter temperature is expected to be near freezing from Jan. 10 until Jan. 13, reported by The Weather Channel, here.

Due to the frigid conditions, it's imperative to address your own state of health during inclement weather. Two common battles attributed to freezing temperatures include the risk of frostbite and hypothermia.

According to the 23d Civil Engineer Squadron's Readiness and the Emergency Management flight, frostbite is damage to body tissue caused by extreme cold. A wind chill of 20 below zero will cause frostbite in just 30 minutes. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in extremities, such as fingers, toes, ear lobes or the tip of the nose.

Layering clothing to keep warm and covering up exposed skin is essential to decrease the likelihood of frostbite. Also, keeping your skin dry, staying hydrated and avoiding harsh winds are vital.

Another common condition to be aware of during the winter season is hypothermia, which is a condition brought on when the body temperature drops to less than 95 degrees. It can kill. For those who survive, there are likely to be lasting kidney, liver and pancreatic problems. Warning signs include uncontrollable shivering, memory loss, disorientation, incoherence, slurred speech, drowsiness and apparent exhaustion. It's also advised to take the person's temperature and if below 95 degrees, they should seek medical care immediately.

If medical care is not available, warm the person slowly, starting with the body core. Warming the arms and legs first drives cold blood toward the heart and can lead to heart failure. If necessary, use your body heat to help. Get the person into dry clothing and wrap them in a warm blanket covering the head and neck. Do not give the person alcohol, drugs, coffee or any hot beverage or food. Warm broth should be the first food to offer.

In addition to protecting your body, it's also advised to properly protect your home during cold, inclement weather. U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Albert Bullard, 23d CES water and fuels system maintenance craftsman, suggests insulating exposed exterior piping with proper piping insulation to help prevent freezing and bursting of pipes in and around the house during inclement weather. If applicable, letting outdoor water spigots drip and turning on sink fixtures to drip is recommended as well.

For more information about battling severe weather conditions, contact the Emergency Management flight at 229-257-2430 and please follow your local weather services.