With extreme cold, cover up to avoid frostbite

With wind chills giving values into the -40s today, it won’t take long for exposed skin to freeze.

Frostbite is a real risk and the Saskatchewan Prevention Institute’s website says the first sign of it is red, swollen skin that feels like it’s stinging or burning.

If skin isn’t protected, it will then turn grey and then shiny and white.

Your face, ears and extremities are especially vulnerable to frostbite.

The Institute suggests using the heat from your hand or lukewarm water to warm up the affected area.

Using a hot bath, heating pad, lamp or stove is not recommended.

If skin has turned white, waxy or is numb, get medical help.