Prevent cold weather problems from happening in the first place!
- Limit exposure to the cold. Take breaks in warm places.
- Wear layers of loose clothing. Cotton or wool is best.
- Waterproof top layer.
- Cover your head, face, hands and feet.
- Keep moving.
- Drink warm (nonalcoholic) beverages.
Know the symptoms of frostbite:
- Feeling uncomfortable.
- Feeling numb.
- Feeling tingling or achy.
- Skin turning reddish or violet black.
- Skin blisters.
- Unconsciousness.
To treat frostbite:
- Warm body parts with blankets or warm (not hot) water.
- Don't rub body part or apply hot water bottles.
- Don't warm up near a hot stove.
- Don't break blisters.
- Seek medical advice, if necessary.
Know symptoms of hypothermia:
- Feeling cold.
- Pain in extremities.
- Shivering.
- Numbness or stiffness.
- Poor coordination.
- Drowsiness.
- Slowed heart rate.
- Slurred speech.
- Cool skin.
- Puffy face.
- Confusion and/ or apathy.
Must act quickly if hypothermia strikes:
- Call 911.
- Give artificial respiration if needed.
- Move to a warm area.
- Get out of cold, wet clothing.
- Bundle in warm clothes and blankets.
- Drink something warm if conscious (nonalcoholic).
