Tips to Avoid Frostbite
- Wear layers! Even in subzero temperatures, your body will produce sweat that can then cause chill or contribute to hypothermia when your skin comes into contact with wet clothing. Wear several loose-fitting layers to provide your body with insulation and ventilation.
- Cover every bit of skin. Gaps in clothing can provide easy access to the winter wind. Exposed cheeks or fingers can become frostbitten in minutes when in extreme temperatures, so be sure to wear a muffler and thermal-lined gloves during cold snaps.
- Double up on socks, and wear knitted mittens, which provide added insulation, in place of cloth gloves.
- Keep your head covered at all times when outside. Much of your body's heat escapes through the top of your scalp during cold weather, so always wear a hat to help keep your body warm.
- Avoid drinking alcohol or sodas, and don't smoke. All of these vices reduce blood flow to your skin and can promote damage during cold weather. Instead, stay well-hydrated by sipping warm water or herbal tea.
- Stay dry. If you get snow in your shoes, gloves, or clothing, go inside, remove the wet layers, and warm up! When you're ready to go back outdoors, dress in dry layers. If your shoes are still wet, wear plastic grocery bags over your socks and underneath the shoes to insulate your feet.
Signs of Frostbite
- Extreme redness or pain on exposed skin
- Graying, numbness, or waxy look on exposed skin
- Tingling sensation on extremities or face
- Blistering or blackening tissue (extreme phase of frostbite)
- Difficulty speaking
- Confusion
- Slow pulse
- Shivering
- Puffy face
- Loss of bodily functions
What to Do if You Suspect Frostbite
- Cover the exposed area as well as possible to promote warmth.
- DO NOT RUB FROSTBITTEN SKIN! IT WILL COME OFF.
- Go indoors or near the closest heat source. (Never use a heating pad or heat lamp on frostbitten skin, which may be numb and can easily be burned.)
- If unable to get indoors, add layers to the frostbitten area until you can get to warmth.
- Drink warm liquids
- Elevate and rest affected areas as much as possible
- Call 9-1-1, or get to your local walk-in or emergency room as soon as possible.
