Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are in widespread use in consumer electronics. Lithium batteries have become the industry standard for rechargeable...
Do Lithium-Ion Batteries Pose a Fire Risk?
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2023 Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Week
Each year, starting with the Martin Luther King holiday, fire departments around the nation support a weeklong campaign to educate communities about...
Call for Pro and Con Committee to Review Levy
Pro and Con Committees Spokane Valley Fire Department is placing before the voters on the February 14, 2023 ballot a proposition authorizing a maintenance and operations excess levy.
COLD HAZARDS AND YOUR HEALTH
The cold weather can affect our bodies. Remember to consider the current and projected weather conditions before heading outside in the cold winter months.
Frostbite/Frostnip
Frostbite is a type of injury caused by the freezing of exposed skin and tissues. At first your skin becomes very cold and red, then numb, hard and pale. Frostbite is most common on your extremities: fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks, forehead, and chin. Frostbite can be severe and permanently damage the body, even leading to amputations in extreme cases. Frostbite requires medical attention because it can damage your skin, tissues, muscle and bones. Frostnip is a milder, superficial form of cold injury that doesn’t cause permanent damage. You can treat frostnip with first-aid measures.
- Signs and symptoms of frostbite:
- First signs include, cold skin and a prickling feeling
- Numbness
- Red, white, bluish-white or grayish-yellow skin
- Hard or waxy-looking skin
- Specific conditions that can lead to frostbite:
- Wearing clothing that isn’t suitable for the conditions.
- Staying out in the cold and wind too long.
- Touching materials such as ice, cold packs or frozen metal.
- Risk Factors:
- Certain medical conditions
- Alcohol or drug use
- Smoking
- Previous frostbite or cold injury
- Being an infant or older adult
Prevention:
- Plan to protect yourself. Dress in several layers of loose, warm clothing.
- Wear a hat or headband that fully covers your ears.
- Wear mittens rather than gloves.
- Wear socks and sock liners that fit well, wick moisture and provide insulation.
- Eat well-balanced meals and stay hydrated. Don’t drink alcohol if you plan to be outdoors in cold weather.
- Limit your time outdoors in cold, wet, or windy weather.
Did you Know?
- You can sign up for a station tour. Great for small groups.
- You should replace the batteries in your smoke alarms twice a year.
- Creating a defensible space with regards to wildfires could just save your home or property.
- We have Friends & Family CPR classes every month.
