As we all know, winter weather in Oklahoma can be unpredictable, with temperatures sometimes dropping 30 to 40 degrees in a single day, going from warm afternoons to hard freezes overnight. While heavy snow is rare, ice storms and dangerously low wind chills are common, creating hazardous conditions, which increase the risk of injury and cold-related illnesses. Preparing ahead of time and knowing when to seek emergency care during freeze warnings can help prevent serious or long-term medical complications.
Below are important tips to help you and your family stay safe during extreme cold weather.
Tips to Stay Safe and Healthy in Freezing Temperatures
1. Dress in Layers
Wearing the right clothing is one of the most effective ways to protect your body from the cold. It’s recommended to wear lightweight, waterproof outer layers and insulating materials such as wool or fleece. Always cover your head, hands, and feet, as these areas lose heat quickly. When packing your essential home kit with items needed during a freeze, don’t forget to include appropriate cold-weather clothing. Remember, Oklahoma’s sudden temperature drops can make even a mild afternoon dangerously cold overnight, so always be prepared with layers, even if the day starts warm.
2. Recognize the Signs of Hypothermia
Cold-related illnesses can develop quickly during freezing temperatures and may become serious if left untreated. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing body temperature to drop to dangerously low levels.
Common signs of hypothermia include:
- Intense shivering
- Slurred speech
- Confusion or difficulty concentrating
- Extreme fatigue or drowsiness
3. Heat Your Home Safely
During a freeze, there is an increased risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning due to improper heating methods. Keep space heaters at least three feet away from flammable items, and never use ovens, grills, or generators indoors. Also, ensure fireplaces and vents are clear and properly ventilated. If you feel dizzy, nauseated, or experience headaches, get fresh air immediately and seek emergency care, as these may be signs of carbon monoxide poisoning.
(link to The Silent Dangers of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning From Your Heating System blog)
Also, power outages are extremely common during this time, so make sure you have a plan for staying warm safely if the electricity goes out.
When to Seek Medical Help Due to Freeze-Related Complications
If you or a loved one experiences any of the following symptoms during a freeze, seek immediate medical attention:
- Persistent shivering
- Confusion or unusual behavior
- Numbness that doesn’t improve
- Chest pain or breathing difficulties
Discover 24/7 Trusted Care — Even During Extreme Winter Conditions
When freezing temperatures put your health at risk, don’t wait to get care. At Oklahoma ER & Hospital, our dedicated medical team is available 24/7 to treat cold-related illnesses and emergencies quickly and safely.
If you or a loved one experiences symptoms related to extreme cold, our facility is always open, no matter the weather condition, to provide prompt, expert care when it matters most. With on-site laboratory and imaging services, all your care is conveniently available in one location.
Disclaimer: As a service to our readers, Oklahoma ER & Hospital and Nutex Health state no content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
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