Winter safety precautions Published Nov. 18, 2013 27th Special Operations Wing Public Affairs CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. -- How cold is too cold? According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, cold stress can occur when the body is unable to warm itself. This can lead to tissue damage and possibly death. Four factors contribute to cold stress: 1. Cold air temperatures 2. High velocity air movement 3. Dampness of the air 4. Contact with cold water or surfaces A cold environment forces the body to work harder to maintain its temperature. Cold air, water, and snow all draw heat from the body. OSHA points out that while below-freezing conditions and inadequate protection can bring about cold stress, problems can also occur with much higher temperatures, when coupled with rain and wind. OSHA recommends these precautions: Recognize the environmental and workplace conditions that may be dangerous. Learn the signs and symptoms of cold-induced illnesses and injuries and what to do to help workers. Train workers about cold-induced illnesses and injuries. Encourage workers to wear proper clothing for cold, wet and windy conditions, including layers that can be adjusted to changing conditions. Be sure workers in extreme conditions take a frequent short break in warm dry shelters to allow their bodies to warm up. Try to schedule work for the warmest part of the day. Avoid exhaustion or fatigue because energy is needed to keep muscles warm. Use the buddy system - work in pairs so that one worker can recognize danger signs the other. Drink warm, sweet beverages (sugar water, sports-type drinks) and avoid drinks with caffeine (coffee, tea, sodas or hot chocolate). Eat warm, high-calorie foods such as hot pasta dishes. Remember, workers face increased risks when they take certain medications, are in poor physical condition or suffer from illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension or cardiovascular disease. Wear a hat. Considerable heat leaves the body from the head. Wear looser clothing rather than tight fitted clothes for ventilation purposes. For more information regarding winter safety, please contact the 27th Special Operations Wing Ground Safety Office at 575-784-2811.