Known as a silent killer, approximately 1,500 people die each year from hypothermia in the U.S.
Baby, It’s Cold Outside Recognizing the symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite Cold-weather stress may account for only a small number of injuries among tree care profes- sionals, but they can leave lasting damage if left untreated. Here’s what to look for and how to protect yourself against the winter chill this season. By Kelly May
Tree care work has the highest rate of work- related fatalities in the U.S and ranks 76th for nonfatal injuries, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics . While most of these deaths and accidents occur from falls, equipment, and falling tree material, frigid weather-related injuries are oen overlooked. Known as a silent killer, approximately 1,500 people die each year from hypothermia in the U.S. Together with frostbite, cold weather illness and injuries can sneak up on workers who may push through uncomfortable condi- tions to get the job done. Here’s how to stay safe in the field and pro- tect yourself from the insidious dangers of hypothermia and frostbite. EFFECTS OF HYPOTHERMIA Northern tree workers are all too familiar with how frosty working conditions can get. But how cold is too cold?
Hypothermia is defined as a drop in body temperature below 95 F, which is below what is required for normal bodily function. When exposed to sub-freezing temperatures and a consistent wind chill, it can be a struggle to retain body heat, giving hypothermia the opportunity to sneak in. Severe cold stress can quickly turn into a case of lasting damage to muscle tissue if not properly treated. Moreover, cold stress can be compounded by a lack of winter- rated gear, exposed skin, and wet or damp clothing. Heat loss occurs when heat radiates away from the body through exposed or unprotected skin. To produce more heat than the body is losing, your thyroid and adrenal glands release large amounts of hormones to boost metabolism, blood pressure, and heart rate. The brain’s hypothalamus sends signals to the blood vessels to constrict, moving the blood further from the skin’s surface where
Cold weather illness and injuries can sneak up on workers who may push through uncomfortable conditions to get the job done.
ArborTIMES Winter 2024 | 15
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