Safety Outdoors in the Cold for Toddlers
Playing outside during colder weather can be lots of fun, as long as you ensure your child is protected.
Here are some tips for winter warmth:
- Provide a warm, water resistant coat. The sleeves should be snug at the wrist.
- Provide warm, water resistant, slip proof footwear.
- Give your toddler mittens. Attach these to coat sleeves.
- Avoid scarves or mittens attached to a long string - these pose a strangulation hazard.
- Choose a warm hat that fits well and has no ties.
- Dress your toddler in loose fitting layers under the coat.
- Make sure your toddler is able to warm up every 30 minutes or so.
- Keep your toddler indoors when temperatures are below -25°C (-13°F), or if the wind chill is -28°C (-18°F) or colder.
Frostbite
If your toddler is out in very cold weather for any length of time, watch for signs of frostbite or skin injury from cold. Look for whiteness and numbness on the cheeks, nose, ears, fingers, and toes. If you think your toddler has frostbite:
- Bring your child indoors immediately.
- Remove wet clothing. Wet clothes take heat away from the body.
- Immerse the frostbitten body part in warm water until feeling has returned. Make sure you test the temperature of the water yourself, because your toddler will not be able to feel heat or cold. Your toddler may cry from the stinging that takes place as feeling returns to the affected area.
Resources & Links:
HealthLink BC: Cold Temperature Exposure
HealthLink BC: Cold Exposure: What Increases Your Risk of Injury?
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