Tips to be safe in cold weather Published March 5, 2012 By Airman 1st Class Sean Johnson 341st Missile Wing Ground Safety MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Montana's winter has arrived and as recent conditions have indicated, the men and women of Wing One would do well to take into special consideration the effects of cold weather on children. As temperatures drop, Airmen are encouraged to protect themselves to maintain mission capability. They should also protect their younger loved ones, as family always comes first. Cold weather affects the body in various ways in minor to severe conditions. Understanding how the body reacts to cold weather will bring proper precautions to avoid injury from extreme temperatures. When temperatures drop, the body responds to the changes in ways such as increased need to urinate, goose pimples, and dilation of blood vessels causing minor redness and shivering. Understanding how to avoid cold-related injuries requires one to know how they show up on the body in either non-freezing or freezing conditions. One basic non-freezing injury occurs when skin is exposed to extreme cold temperatures. Dry skin commonly affects millions of people each winter. Airmen can alleviate this by protecting the skin with lotions or creams. Two main freezing injuries occur in extreme cold. Frostnip and frostbite occur in skin exposed to freezing temperatures for long periods of time. Frostnip affects the top layers of skin causing toes, fingers, noses and ears to feel numb and turn white. Frostbite occurs from exposure to cold temperatures or skin contact with freezing metal objects. Frostbite affects various body parts and often leads to a blockage of blood flow. If severe enough, frostbite can cause tissue damage leading to infection or gangrene. A body protected from extreme cold deters skin reactions and damage. Though thirst might not be felt, keep children hydrated and maintain moderate activity for optimal skin conditions and proper blood flow. Wear protective clothing during cold temperatures. This includes hats, gloves, scarves, secure-fitting long sleeves, pants, layered clothing and waterproof outerwear such as coats and boots. Avoiding exertion when outside in the cold and understanding wind chill factors can help individuals prepare for safe outside activities, according to Princeton University. Children can be especially susceptible to cold as the instinct of self-preservation may not be developed. Take special caution when temperatures drop below freezing and make sure young ones are properly dressed when necessity indicates the need for them to be outside. Whether kids are playing in the yard or walking to school, parents can prepare for the worst with sound risk management practices. Assess the risks of over exposure to children during this winter and implement common controls for the best outcome.