Frostbite is a dangerous condition that can happen when a person is exposed to extremely cold temperatures. This injury is caused by freezing. It leads to a loss of feeling and color in the affected areas such as, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, nose and toes. Frostbite can lead to permanent damage and sever cases can lead to amputation.
You may be at a greater risk of developing frostbite if:
□ You have poor blood circulation
□ You are not properly dressed for extremely cold temperatures
1. A white or grayish-yellow skin area
2. Skin that feels firm or waxy
3. Numbness
Someone with frostbite may not know they have it until someone else points it out because the frozen parts of their body are numb. If you notice signs of frostbite on yourself, or someone else, seek medical care immediately.
□ Move the person into a warm area as soon as possible
□ Do not walk on feet or toes that show signs of frostbite unless absolutely necessary.
□ Do not rub or massage the frostbitten area. This can cause more damage.
□ Put the areas affected by frostbite in warm water (the temperatures should be comfortable to the touch for unaffected areas of the body).
Frostbite should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Preparedness is your best defense against cold weather emergencies! Prepare your home and car ahead of winter storms and take safety precautions during extremely cold weather.
Hypothermia is a condition that occurs when core body temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius). It is a medical emergency.
Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it produces it. The most common causes of hypothermia are exposure to cold-weather conditions or cold water.
Conditions that lead to hypothermia include:
□ Wearing clothing that is not warm enough for weather conditions.
□ Staying out in the cold for too long
□ Being unable to get out of wet clothes or move to a warm, dry locations.
The following people may be at risk of hypothermia:
□ Older adults with inadequate food, clothing or heating
□ Babies sleeping in cold bedrooms
□ People who remain outdoors for long periods of time (people experiencing homelessness, hikers, hunters, etc.)
□ People who drink alcohol or use illicit drugs
Confusion Bright red, cold skin
Drowsiness Very low energy
Exhaustion or feeling very tired
Fumbling Hands
Memory Loss
Shivering
Slurred Speech
□ Move the person to a warm, dry place away from the elements
□ Remove any wet clothing
□ Cover the person with a dry blanket, layer of towels or clothing
□ Offer warm, non-alcoholic beverages
A person with severe hypothermia may be unconscious, not have a pulse or not be breathing.
□ Call 911 Immediately
□ Perform CPR, if trained to do so. CPR should continue until the person responds, medical aid has arrived or if it has become unsafe for you to do so.
If possible, keep the person warm. In some instances, hypothermia victims who appear to be dead can be successfully resuscitated.
□ To find a warming center near you, visit: Home - Washington 211 - Washington 211
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