Oklahoma State fans prepare for frigid conditions at game

By Merrick Eagleton,  Stillwater NewsPress
 

The right clothing is the best way to stay warm during Saturday’s Bedlam game at Boone Pickens Stadium, an Oklahoma State University health official said.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning through 6 p.m. Friday. Freezing rain and sleet are forecast for Thursday night and Friday.

Saturday’s game-day forecast calls for a high of 28 degrees and a low of 17. It will be partly cloudy.

University of Health Services Assistant Director Jack Henneha advised fans to wear lots of layers and high-quality cold weather gear.

The first layers should be a wicking material, like thermal underwear, that keeps perspiration from making your clothes damp, Henneha said.

The next layer is meant for warmth. Materials for this layer of clothing should be fleece, wool or other similar fabrics. The last layer focuses on blocking the wind and again, keeping out moisture. Try a windbreaker, ski jacket or something else of similar quality. Also, don’t forget the extras.

Blankets, hats, gloves and scarves are important to keep exposed skin warm.

Henneha warns against unsafe tailgating behaviors, especially in severe winter weather. He says proper hydration, such as water, is important to health and warmth.

“Just kind of use common sense about alcohol consumption in cold weather,” Henneha said. “It’s not the anti-freeze that people think that it is.”

Frequent bathroom breaks also help to regenerate body temperatures. The stadium bathrooms are heated and an escape from the wind.

Hand warmers can be a lifesaver for frozen fingers. They also make peel and stick toe warmers and body warmers. The warmers radiate heat for hours to keep the extremities feeling warm. Put them in gloves or pockets to keep hands toasty.

“Those are always good so you can tuck your hands in there and keep warm,” Henneha said.

Visiting the concession stand often also helps to stay warm. Hot chocolate and coffee are available at concession stands, and they are an instant warmth flowing through the body. The calories from munchies help refuel your body.

If the chilling temperatures are still getting to you, try to stay active. Once the body starts feeling cold it needs movement to keep the blood flowing. Stand up and move around, or stay in to the game by cheering a lot.

“Cheer loudly,” Henneha said. “... The more you jump up and down it’ll help keep you warm.”

The Gayly - December 5, 2013 @ 9:20am