Doctors share tips for staying safe during this week’s cold weather

Amid bitter cold temperatures headed for Minnesota, doctors urge people to wear layers and limit time outside.

“We have layers under our coats. We’re not cold at all,” Mary Rae Berman, Minneapolis resident, said.

Battling the bitter cold is a walk in the park for The Bermans.

“Just to get our bodies moving and to not feel bad about only sitting around for the next three days,” Molly Berman said.

This is Molly’s warm welcome back to Minnesota.

She flew in from New York to visit family for the holidays and the fresh powder didn’t stop her.

“I do love the snow and I like having like a really wintry Christmas,” Molly said.

The winter weather also comes with a dangerous wind chill that will reach about 35 degrees below zero this week.

“It’s normal. We’re not going to break record cold this week, but you never get used to this and your body just kind of has to acclimate to it,” Jonathan Yuhas, 5 EYEWITNESS NEWS meteorologist, said.

Yuhas has been tracking the cold snap.

Staying outside for too long could lead to frostnip or frostbite.

“If it becomes so severe that the injury truly freezes, it can lead to the need for amputation or really serious injury,” Robert Wellborn, Allina Health’s United Hospital emergency department, said.

Dr. Wellborn explained he often sees patients with injuries and illnesses related to the cold.

“If your feet or your hands start to hurt, you should have a plan to get back inside,” Dr. Wellborn said.

If you experience frostnip or a mild frostbite, don’t rush to warm up.

Doctors suggest using lukewarm water on your hands or feet to increase the temperature slowly.

Experts added it helps to go outside prepared.

“We have lots and lots of layers on and hot hands in our mittens,” Molly said.

Minnesotans often find ways to rise above the below zero temps.

“It is so cold here for so long. You’d better love it,” Mary Rae said.