It's Freezing Cold and You've Lost Power. Here's What Emergency Doctors Want You to Do

The lights are out, the temperature is plummeting, and you're starting to shiver. Prolonged power outages combined with these brutal winter temperatures create a perfect storm for Hypothermia. And it's not just sub-zero conditions that are dangerous; even seemingly "routine" winter weather can push your body to its limits, especially if you’re stuck without heat.

Power Outage in Freezing Temps?! Doctors Reveal Li...

Emergency room doctors are seeing an uptick in cold-related cases and are urging people to take precautions now. The risk of Hypothermia and frostbite indoors is especially worrying in regions where infrastructure isn't really built for this kind of deep freeze, and where folks aren't accustomed to dealing with these kinds of temperatures.

So, what should you do? The Cleveland Clinic emphasizes that diagnosis of hypothermia relies on both body temperature and observable symptoms. Mild hypothermia, where your core temperature dips to between 89.6 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit (32 to 35 degrees Celsius), manifests as shivering, exhaustion, unusual sleepiness, a weak pulse, and a general feeling of clumsiness.

Things get more serious with moderate hypothermia, which is defined as a body temperature between 82.4 and 89.6 F (28 to 32 C). Expect slurred speech, a slowed heart rate, possible hallucinations, and oddly enough, decreased shivering – that's your body starting to shut down.

And when your body temperature plummets below 82.4 F (28 C), it's critical. Reflexes vanish, muscles stiffen completely, fluid can build up in the lungs, coma sets in, and tragically, death can occur. It's a grim picture, but awareness is the first step in prevention.

Dr. Ben Weston, an ER doctor and director of health policy for the Milwaukee County Office of Emergency Management, stresses that persistent shivering is a red flag. It's a sign to immediately get the person into a warmer environment. But if you see confusion or more severe symptoms? Call 911 immediately.

Weston points out a danger that many might overlook: even moderately cold temperatures, say 30 to 40 F (minus-1 to 4 C), can be hazardous if you're exposed for long periods. This extended cold exposure puts a real strain on the body, elevates blood pressure, and makes the heart work overtime. Shivering itself, while a natural defense mechanism, is incredibly taxing. Hours of shivering can deplete energy reserves, especially in older adults or those with underlying health issues. "That additional stress and strain on the body and energy production can really push people to the limit," Weston explained.

What’s concerning is that people often underestimate the danger. "You think you're going to be OK with a sweatshirt and sweatpants and it kind of creeps up on people," Dr. Weston said. So, be vigilant. Don't let the cold sneak up on you. Doctors also remind us that dehydration is harder to spot in cold weather, and being close to a heater can make it worse. So, keep drinking water. It really helps your body regulate its temperature.

Finally, remember the basics: avoid alcohol, which impairs your body's ability to stay warm and can cloud your judgment. And layer up! The North Carolina Department of Emergency Management recommends wearing warm, loose-fitting, lightweight clothing in multiple layers that can be easily added or removed. Don't forget to cover your mouth with a scarf to protect your lungs from the frigid air. Stay safe and stay warm out there.