In the next 48 hours, the Atlanta area is likely to experience single-digit temperatures — temperatures that can cause serious health problems.

Prolonged exposure to freezing or cold temperatures may cause illnesses including frostbite and hypothermia. In extreme cases, including being immersed in cold water, exposure can lead to death.

Danger signs include uncontrolled shivering, slurred speech, clumsy movements, fatigue, and confused behavior. (If these signs are observed, students should call Stamps Health Services at 404-894-1420, and employees should consult with their physicians.) 

If you are a member of the Georgia Tech community who will be outside for any length of time over the next few days, be sure to keep these tips from the Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency in mind:

• Limit discretionary outdoor activities. Consider rescheduling outdoor activities until the temperature returns to a more reasonable level, or schedule work/outside time for the warmest part of the day.
• Take frequent, short breaks in warm, dry shelters if you must be outside for extended periods. This allows the body to warm up.
• Use the buddy system if you’re working outdoors, so one person will be there to recognize any danger signs of illness in the other.
• Remember that people face increased risks in extreme cold when they take certain medications, are in poor physical condition, or suffer from illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease.
• Wear proper clothing for cold, wet, and windy conditions, including layers that can be adjusted to changing weather.
• Avoid situations that cause exhaustion or fatigue, because energy is needed to keep muscles warm.
• Drink warm, sweet beverages (sugar water, sports-type drinks) to stay hydrated, and avoid drinks with caffeine (coffee, tea, sodas, or hot chocolate) or alcohol.
• Eat warm, high-calorie foods such as hot pasta dishes.
• Ensure that vehicles have full or nearly full fuel tanks, and are not in obvious need of maintenance.
• Keep spare items of dry clothing and other provisions in vehicles for unforeseen circumstances where you may need to take refuge in the vehicle.

Check out these links for additional information:

• CDC Extreme Cold Guide
• NIOSH “Cold Stress” guidance for Workplace Safety
• CDC Winter Weather Health and Safety Tips
• National Safety Council's “Winter, Your Car and You”
• OSHA — THE COLD STRESS EQUATION