During Extreme Cold: Watch for Frostbite!

When exposed to extremely cold weather, frostbite can be a real danger. Luckily, there are precautions you can take to avoid it.
 

Frostbite is a body’s survival mechanism to protect its internal organs and can occur in minutes during severe cold. Some of the most common areas to be susceptible to frostbite is the fingers, toes, nose and ears, so its important to cover those along with any exposed skin if you have to venture out. A wind chill of minus-20 degrees Fahrenheit can cause frostbite in just 30 minutes. Things to do to lessen the risk of frostbite is to:
 

• Wear mittens instead of gloves

• Keep your skin dry

• Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and cigarettes

Signs of frostbite are:

• Ice crystals forming on skin

• Skin begins to feel warm and turns red, pale, or white

• Pain lasts for more than a few hours with skin turning dark blue or black
 

The last one is likely a sign of severe frostbite which can cause permanent damage to tissue. See a doctor immediately if you suspect these symptoms.
 

If you suspect frostbite, it’s important to head indoors immediately but until you can you should:
 

• Avoid rubbing or massaging cold body parts

• Place hands under armpits

• Drink warm liquids

• Put on extra layers of clothing

• Remove rings, watches, or any tight jewelry
 

Once indoors:
 

• Don’t walk on frostbitten foot

• Seek warm, NOT hot, sources such as heating pad, warm water etc.

• Don’t break blisters if they form
 

If your skin turns blue, gray, swollen, blistered, or feels hard/numb under the surface go to the hospital as soon as possible. Be sure to keep up to date on forecast temperatures and wind chill values to limit time outdoors accordingly this season. 

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