Preparing employees to work in harsh winter weather is not to be taken lightly.

Local officials say that those who work in construction, or as mail carriers or first responders should dress for the part in layers.

Additionally, they should eat high calorie foods to keep their energy levels up and drink warm beverages if possible.

Staying dry is also critical, which can be challenging for fire fighters battling fires and construction workers working to repair water mains.

Assistant Fire Chief Clint Reff for the Duluth Fire Department said they combat these challenges by keeping their hoses trickling to prevent the water from freezing. Additionally, they try to keep crews as dry as possible to prevent them from getting frost bite or hypothermia.

“As you're fighting fires, unfortunately, if you get water on yourself, it freezes on you. The minute that thaws out and you get back into one of the rigs and you start to thaw, that wet mess actually kind of magnifies the effect of a cold,” Reff said.

Chris Kleist, Utility Operator Supervisor for the City of Duluth also addressed the challenges they face. He said they use sand and abrasive to create traction on potentially slippery surfaces. Additionally, they wear layers and try to stay dry as well.

“We wear layers, we wear very warm clothes. Outdoor, heavy duty gear and we also have trucks that are idling and stay warm so folks can warm up if they need to because it is cold out here. Our hands and feet and fingers get cold,” Kleist said.

For workers bracing harsh winter weather, using the buddy system to look out for signs of cold related ailments like frost bite or hypothermia is also huge.

Signs of frost bite include changes in skin tone and numbness, while signs of hypothermia include confusion and slurred speech.

Finally, taking frequent breaks to go someplace warm is also invaluable.

To see the orignal report and related posts, follow this link to the WDIO-TV website.  https://www.wdio.com/duluth-minnesota-news/acclimating-workers-to-winter-weather/6003036/?cat=10335