When it gets cold, your body can lose heat faster than it is produced, which can lead to frostbite or hypothermia.
- Frostbite can occur in less than a minute – even faster if the wind is blowing. Look for numbness and a white or bleached color on vulnerable body parts such as cheeks, chin, ears, fingers, nose and toes.
- The best way to prevent frostbite and hypothermia is to dress properly. Wear several layers of loose-fitting clothes, including water-resistant clothing and boots. Be sure to cover vulnerable body parts.
- Hypothermia occurs when someone is exposed to cold weather for a long period of time. Most people associate hypothermia with extreme temperatures, but it can occur as warm as 40 degrees if the person gets wet from rain, sweat or being under water. Signs of hypothermia include disorientation, drowsiness, exhaustion and shivering out of control.
- If you suspect someone has frostbite or hypothermia, get them out of the cold and into a warm room. Don’t massage or walk on areas that show signs of frostbite. Warm body parts in lukewarm water that is comfortable to the touch. DO NOT use a heating lamp, electric blanket, stove or fireplace to warm affected areas – they can easily burn. Call 911 in an emergency, or if you suspect hypothermia.