How to Prevent and Treat Frostbite

Winter weather can be beautiful, but when temperatures drop, frostbite becomes a serious risk. Your skin is your body’s first line of defense, and a little preparation can go a long way in keeping you protected.

How to Prevent Frostbite

• Dress warmly: Layer up, and be sure to cover your hands, head, ears, and feet with gloves, hats, and thick socks. Waterproof boots help keep heat in and moisture out.
• Stay dry: Wet clothing can make you colder much faster, so stay dry and change out of damp clothes as soon as possible.
• Limit time outdoors: When it’s freezing, take frequent breaks to warm up and avoid extended exposure.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol, which can make it harder for your body to retain heat.

Frostbite First Aid

Frostbite often starts with numbness or tingling, followed by skin that turns pale, gray or waxy looking. The affected area might feel hard or frozen and severe cases can cause blisters. If you suspect frostbite:

• Get warm: Head indoors immediately.
• Rewarm slowly: Soak the area in warm (not hot) water for up to 30 minutes or use body heat. Avoid heating pads or direct heat sources as they can cause skin burns.
• Seek care: If the skin color doesn’t return to normal or blisters appear, get medical help right away. You can find emergency and urgent care services at Marshall Health Network here.

Frostbite can happen faster than you think, especially when the wind chill is high. With a little preparation and care, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of extreme cold.Bottom of Form