Vermilion Parish workers prepare for cold temperature

Monday’s temperature was only a test of what is about to happen Tuesday.
When everyone awoke Monday morning, the temperature in Vermilion Parish was 28 degrees with the windchill putting it down to the low 20s.
Alena Guidry works for Vector Aviation at the Chris Crusta Airport in Abbeville. Her job is to fuel planes, jets and helicopters at the airport. The way she kept warm Monday was by layering, including three shirts, long-johns and thick coveralls.
“The only thing really cold is my face,” she said as she fueled a Westwind Helicopter at the airport.
Tuesday is expected to be colder, in the mid teens to lower 20s.
Tuesday is predicted to be one of the coldest days in south Louisiana
Like Guidry, many have to work in cold weather because their occupation does not close up for winter weather. As a result, these workers need to learn how best to protect themselves from the elements to safely perform their jobs.
Fire and police personnel, electrical line workers, rescue workers, welders, oil field workers, and garbage collectors are just some of the occupations where people have to perform their jobs in all sorts of weather extremes. If you are going to work outside during the winter months, you must learn how to work in cold weather.

Steps to working in the cold
• Learn all you can about the dangers of being exposed to cold weather, the signs of the medical conditions that can result from cold exposure, and how to treat any resulting injuries.
• Frostbite, which is when the skin and underlying tissues are damaged (usually in the extremities) from cold exposure, has symptoms that include “pins and needles” sensations followed by numbness.
• Hypothermia is when the body’s core temperature drops significantly below normal.

• Wear as many layers of clothing as possible, which allow you to move comfortably. One thick layer of clothing is not as effective in insulating your body against the cold as several layers are.
• The first layer should be a synthetic blend that can wick sweat away from your body.
• The second layer of clothing should be wool.
• The third layer should be a weather-proof outer layer followed by a down coat or vest.
• Lean people may need more insulation than someone who is heavier.

• Take frequent drinks of warm liquids such as decaffeinated coffee, tea, broth, or hot chocolate.
• Avoid caffeine or alcohol when working in the cold.

• Protect your extremities as well as your ears and nose with a hat, scarf, gloves, and thick socks.
Feet and hands can become vulnerable to injury, such as frostbite and chilblains as the heat of the body moves toward the core in cold weather.
More than 40% of your body heat may be lost if your head is uncovered. Wearing a warm cap that covers your ears is very important when working in the cold.
Wear boots that are waterproof and insulated.
• Be aware of the weather conditions as you prepare to work in the cold. Wet conditions and low windchill can decrease body temperature very quickly, causing significant risk if you work outside. The warm air surrounding your body is taken away more quickly as the wind increases.
• Erect a shelter to work out of the wind if possible.
• If you are on a route where you are exposed to cold outside conditions, stop as frequently as possible in a warm area, such as a gas station, to warm up.
•Wear several layers of socks when possible, but do not allow your shoes to constrict the blood flow to the feet.
• Take extra care working outside during cold weather if you have diabetes or high-blood pressure. The poor circulation associated with these conditions may make you more susceptible to cold-weather injuries.
• Avoid working to the point of exhaustion, or your body will not have enough energy to warm itself.
• Beware of medication that may impair your body’s natural defensive responses to the cold.