Thursday, December 20, 2007
BRRRRR
Now that the cold weather has hit with a vengence, this is a good time to review what you need to know to stay warm, dry, and comfortable during the winter.
USE YOUR HEAD!
And keep it covered. Warm air rises, so if you keep your head covered you will feel warmer.
WICK, WICK, WICK!
You should wear a garment with "wicking" properties on you body. If you wear basic cotton underwear or sox, the cotton will absorb the moisture from your sweat, making you feel damp and as a result - COLDER. Use underwear and sox made of polypropelene to "wick" the moisture away from your body, making you feel drier, warmer, and more comfortable.
LAYERS, LAYERS, LAYERS!
If you wear two or three layers to keep warm, you will have the option to remove a layer if the weather warms up. It may be 10 degrees at 7 AM when you start, and 40 degrees by lunch time. If you have one heavy coat, it could be too warm for your coat but not warm enough to take it off. Using layers allows you to adjust to conditions that are changing. The Carhartt waterproof breathable coat (pictured at top left) is a great item for people working in changing conditions. It is a lightweight, waterproof, breathable shell that you can wear all year (even during a spring or summer rainstorm). You just buy it big enough to fit some insulating layers underneath.
WATCH THE HEAT!
If you are working both inside and out, try not to get overheated when inside because you may start to sweat making you feel colder once you get back outside (see the paragraph above about the correct underwear and sox to wick away the moisture). If you drive to work, watch the heat in your car or truck. If you get used to a heated car or truck, the weather outside may seam colder.
WE GLOVE YOU!
Try to buy gloves that are flexible enough so that you can do your work with them on. If you have to take off your gloves to work with small items you end up with cold hands and cold gloves. Try to keep your gloves on your hands and you will end up with them staying warmer for a longer time.
Staying warm while working outside in the winter is a challenge. You need the right equipment tp stay comfortable in tough conditions. This will take an investment on money and time (both of which can be in short supply from time to time). But if you invest in your comfort and safety you will probably enjoy your work more, even in the colder months.
Stay warm,
The doctor
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