Peel Health recommends the following steps to be taken to prevent cold injuries:
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General Recommendations
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Establish a policy and plan to deal with
potential consequences of extreme
temperatures and winter storms (e.g.
power outage, lack of transportation).
Have an emergency kit available.
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Reduce the amount of time children
spend outdoors when the temperature is
-20 degrees Celsius or colder (with or
without the wind chill).
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Keep children indoors when the
temperature is -25 degrees Celsius or
colder (with or without wind chill).
Some medical conditions may increase
sensitivity to cold, parents should consult
their physician.
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Allow indoor breaks if children say they
are feeling cold or during extreme
temperatures.
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Ensure children are dressed warmly,
covering exposed skin: insulated boots,
winter weight coats, mittens, hats, and
neck warmers.
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Change wet clothing or footwear
immediately.
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Although these conditions are unlikely to
occur during the day, ensure that all staff
are able to recognize and treat symptoms
of frostbite and hypothermia. Give plenty
of warm fluids to prevent dehydration.
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When children are outside, be watchful for
shivering or signs of numbness in faces,
ears, hands or feet.
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Educate parents and children about
dealing with cold weather, such as:
drinking plenty of fluids, dressing warmly,
and recognizing signs of cold injury.
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During a Cold Alert
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Follow the General Guidelines AND
- Activate policies and plans to deal with
extreme temperatures
- Give warm fluids and avoid caffeinated
beverages to prevent dehydration
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- Remember to dress children in layers of
warm clothing
- Keep children indoors
- Maintain a heated indoor environment at
20° Celsius or higher
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