HYPOTHERMIA: Here are the warning signs you need to look for ahead of this week’s freeze

HOUSTON – As temperatures plunge over the next couple of days, people in our area will be at risk of getting hypothermia when spending time outside.

If you’re working outdoors, or among the older population, or a small child, this is especially concerning.

“It can set in in about 20 minutes, maybe even 30 minutes,” explained Dr. Michelle Udayamurthy with Kelsey-Seybold Clinic. “You get colder extremities, that’s the first thing you would notice.”

Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it.

Warning signs include:

• Confusion
• Difficulty speaking
• Sleepiness
• Stiff muscles
• Shivering

“A person is like uncontrollably, shivering and like they can’t control their shivering, so that’s a time to say, ‘Hey, we need to move to a warmer environment,’” Dr. Udayamurthy said.

In the case this happens, move the person indoors and replace any cold, wet clothing with dry coats or blankets.

RELATED LINKS

• WATCH: Extended coverage of arctic blast that will drop temperatures into the teens
• Texas power grid expected to withstand extreme cold this week
• Track the Texas power grid: Watch ERCOT’s current grid conditions in real-time
• Get these items out of your car ahead of freezing temperatures
• Don’t forget! Tips on how to protect your pipes and sprinklers from the freezing weather
• Is your home winter ready? Here are some tips to help protect your home from freezing temperatures
• Ways to keep your furry friends safe, warm in the winter
• Mayor Turner, Judge Hidalgo urge Houstonians to prepare, plan ahead of hard freeze this week
• What you should know about fireplace and chimney care before freezing temperatures arrive in our area
• Houston Freeze: How to protect your plants ahead of freezing temperatures