The big Freeze!? Following all the big snow falls we now have the big freeze.? Bessans, in the Upper Maurienne valley, Savoie, recorded temperatures of -28 deg. C.? Snowshoeing near Albiez-le-Vieux in the Maurienne (c.1600m) night time temperatures dropped to below -20.?? Well, so what?
It’s a good reminder to think of how to protect yourself, or your friends from cold injuries like frostbite / nip.? Exposed skin, especially if there’s an additional “wind chill” factor will start to freeze.? Skin cells literally end up being damaged and destroyed irrepairably.? Prevention is the key.
Make sure you cover up exposed skin and prominent features!? Nose, ears, fingers and cheeks are particularly vulnerable (oh, toes of course too – over-tight boots can be a real problem).? Remember also that? skin will literally stick to very cold metal so use gloves.
The first signs of frostnip are white, waxy skin and it’s often easier for a friend to spot this so think “buddy system” and keep and eye out for each other.
Don’t forget your vehicle too.? Diesel, except with special additives starts to jellify below – 15 deg. and so will give problems.? There were loads of cars being looked over by breakdown vehicles.? Remember to get low temperature rated screen wash too.
