Image Credit: CFJC Today / Kent Simmonds

By Jill Sperling

COLD SNAP

‘Frostbite is a worry’: Outdoor workers gearing up for Kamloops cold snap

Jan 13, 2020 | 4:26 PM

KAMLOOPS — The weekend brought yet another shift in the weather with temperatures plummeting below normal.

While many people avoided going out in the blowing snow that arrived Sunday, it was back to work for much of the city today.

Those who work outside were contending with the risk of frostbite.

“Especially with the wind, frostbite is a worry,” said Willy Saari, a private contractor who was clearing snow, “you’re (doing) physical activity so you’re sweating underneath with all these layers. I had a couple staff go home last night — they just weren’t dressed properly for it.”

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Saari was finishing up his work day around 1:00 p.m. Monday (Jan. 13). His shift began at 10:30 Sunday night.

He says people need to take special care in the current conditions.

“Try to get some rest when you can, lots of water, some Gatorade and proper nutrition are the key things.”

In Pineview, construction site workers were sent home due to the frigid temperatures.

First Aid and Safety Representative with Granite Developments Michele Von Gunten says it was simply too dangerous.

“I had siding guys on site this morning but we sent them home because the tools wouldn’t start and it’s just too dangerous to stand for so long,” she said.

Other workers were able to continue their tasks indoors. Von Gunten works both inside and outside.

“It’s not bad,” she said. “You’ve got to stay busy and stay walking and moving. If you stand too long then it gets cold, but it’s not bad. The sun’s out so it’s nice in the sun.”

Some workers were quite happy to see a shift to colder, snowier weather.

“I kind of enjoy it,” said mail carrier Randy Fenwick. “It is freezing, but you just keep moving and have fun, right? Play in the snow, and seeing this is fantastic. That means we all get to go play on the weekend.”

Having grown up in Saskatchewan, Fenwick is no stranger to the cold and understands the value of dressing for the conditions.

“Definitely just layer up, and then that way if you do get a little warm you can take layers off. Make sure you’ve got good cleats and good footwear because you’ll slip and slide out here no matter what and you can’t tell where the ice is, it gets pretty bad. Just keep moving and try to stay warm, and try to think happy warm thoughts. That’s number one.”