Long Islanders brave the cold while working outside
From gas stations to towing services, those who must be outside are doing whatever they can to stay warm.
More Stories
As temperatures plummet across Long Island, many workers are facing the harsh reality of working outdoors in bitterly cold conditions. From gas stations to towing services, those who must be outside are doing whatever they can to stay warm.
At a Valero service station on Jericho Turnpike in Huntington Station, Atif Hussain has spent the night filling gas tanks in sub-freezing temperatures.
He’s wearing plenty of layers and taking lots of breaks indoors.
Nearby, Rayvon Poidomani, a tow truck operator with Bill's Towing in Hicksville, is also braving the freezing weather.
He explains that while hand warmers help, the best way to cope with the cold is to "move quick" to limit exposure.
"Your fingers get numb, your feet get cold, it gets rough," he admits, but says keeping his movements brisk helps him stay warmer while working.
As these workers face the elements, doctors are reminding everyone to be aware of the dangers of prolonged cold exposure, including hypothermia.
Dr. Jerry Rubano, Regional Director of Trauma at NYU Langone Health, advises that workers and outdoor enthusiasts limit their time outside, especially if they begin noticing symptoms of hypothermia.
"If you notice someone's lips turning blue or if they’re shivering more than usual, those are signs," Dr. Rubano explains.
