Staying Warm in Extreme Cold: Tips for Working Outdoors

Working outdoors in extreme winter temperatures requires preparation to prevent hypothermia, frostbite, and other cold-related injuries. Follow these best practices to stay safe, productive, and comfortable.

1. Prepare Your Equipment

  • Air Filters: Replace or clean air filters in your cab to improve heater performance. Clear any snow or ice from airways.
  • Radiator: Cover radiator intakes to help your machine warm up faster. Never operate until the engine reaches full temperature.
  • Engine Block: Plug in engine block heaters overnight to reduce engine issues and costly service calls.
  • Fuel & Fluids: Use winter-grade fuel and keep fluids topped off. Cold weather thickens oils and fuel, which can strain engines.
  • Lighting & Visibility: Short winter days make visibility crucial. Make sure lights are clear of snow and ice.

2. Wear Proper Gear

  • Thermal Coveralls: Insulated coveralls retain body heat while allowing movement. Thermal long underwear works if coveralls aren’t available.
  • Helmet Liners & Neck Gaiters: Fleece-lined liners and neck gaiters keep heat from escaping. Cover all exposed skin.
  • Gloves & Mittens: Layering gloves with liners helps balance warmth and dexterity. Mittens are warmer for long periods of inactivity.
  • Thermal Socks & Insulated Boots: Double-layer socks and insulated boots prevent heat loss while standing or walking on cold surfaces.
  • Eyewear: Snow and wind can irritate eyes. Consider goggles or protective eyewear to shield from windburn or glare.

3. Optimize Your Environment

  • Ground Barriers: Stand on mats, plywood, or other insulating materials to reduce heat loss from cold surfaces.
  • Portable Heaters & Shelters: Use heaters or temporary heated shelters for breaks to reduce prolonged exposure.
  • Windbreaks: Position equipment or temporary screens to block wind, which can drastically increase heat loss.
  • Buddy System: Work in pairs when possible, so someone can monitor for signs of cold-related illness.

4. Stay Hydrated and Nourished

  • Warm Drinks: Hot water, tea, or broth helps maintain body temperature. Avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, which can cause heat loss.
  • High-Energy Foods: Protein and carbohydrate-rich snacks provide energy to generate body heat.

5. Manage Your Time Outdoors

  • Plan Work Around Weather: Schedule heavy outdoor tasks during warmer parts of the day if possible.
  • Take Breaks Often: Step inside or into a heated area to warm up every 30–60 minutes in extreme cold.
  • Layer Strategically: Remove or add layers based on activity level to prevent sweating, which can chill the body once activity slows.

6. Recognize the Signs of Overexposure

Hypothermia:

  • Shivering stops
  • Shallow, slow breathing
  • Confusion, memory loss, exhaustion
  • Slurred speech
  • Loss of coordination
  • Weak, slow pulse
  • Severe cases: unconsciousness

Frostbite:

  • Skin changes color (white, grey-yellow, dark)
  • Hard, waxy texture or numbness
  • Blisters may form
  • Rewarming can cause swelling, burning, or itching
  • Severe frostbite may lead to permanent tissue damage

7. Additional Safety Tips

  • Emergency Supplies: Keep a small kit in vehicles or work areas with blankets, extra gloves, snacks, and a flashlight.
  • Communication: Ensure cell phones or radios are accessible and fully charged in case of emergencies.
  • Vehicle Safety: Winterize work vehicles with antifreeze, battery maintenance, and winter tires.
  • Know When to Stop: Extreme wind chills can be life-threatening. Always be ready to pause or postpone work if conditions become unsafe.

Stay safe this winter: Plan your day around the coldest hours, layer appropriately, monitor your team, and limit exposure during extreme wind chills.

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