‘Hypothermia is going to be a big issue’: Bell Ambulance discusses safety in brutal cold

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- As cold temperatures take hold in southeastern Wisconsin, Bell Ambulance is offering safety advice to those who have to go outside.

Bell Ambulance Client Services Representative Aubin Muszytowski says people need to wear as many layers as possible.

"You really want to cover up any exposed skin. Any kind of exposed skin to this kind of weather is not going to be a good thing," said Muszytowski.

Responders say any exposed skin could leave your vulnerable to frostbite. Bell Ambulance says they get calls about people slipping on ice, so you should be careful and shuffle your feet when walking on ice. 

Ambulances are equipped with blankets, hot packs and a heated truck to help prevent some of the most common weather-related health issues. 

“Hypothermia for one," Muszytowski said. "Hypothermia is going to be a very big issue with this kind of weather. We see a lot of dehydration from people are outside and wear a lot of layers and forget to drink a lot of water. That can be really important."

Emergency responders want to remind drivers to move over and slow down when they see an ambulance because they are trying to respond to calls as quickly as they can. 

Muszytowski said it is also extremely important to check on loved ones to make sure they are OK.