Cold weather can be dangerous for anyone who spends time outdoors for either work or pleasure. Be mindful of the risks. Excessive exposure to low temperatures, wind, or moisture can cause two dangerous conditions: frostbite and hypothermia.
Before venturing outside in winter:
- Check the temperature and limit your time outdoors if it’s very cold, wet, or windy;
- Bundle up in several layers of loose clothing;
- Wear mittens rather than gloves;
- Cover your head and ears with a warm hat; and
- Wear socks that will keep your feet warm and dry.
Frostbite
Even skin that is protected can be subject to frostbite. It’s the most common injury resulting from exposure to severe cold, and it usually occurs on fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks, and chin. If caught early, it is possible to prevent permanent damage. If not, frostbite can cause tissue death and lead to amputation.
Superficial frostbite affects the skin surface while the underlying tissue remains soft. The skin appears white, waxy, or grayish-yellow and is cold and numb.
If the condition progresses to deep frostbite, all layers of the skin are affected, and the outcome likely will be more serious. The skin will become completely numb, blisters may form, and eventually the skin tissue dies and turns black.
If you suspect frostbite:
- Move the victim out of the cold and into a warm place
- Remove wet clothing and constricting items
- Protect between fingers and toes with dry gauze
- Seek medical attention as soon as possible
- Warm the frostbitten area in lukewarm water (99 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit) for 20 to 30 minutes only if medical care will be delayed and if there is no danger of the skin refreezing
- Do not use chemical warmers directly on frostbitten tissue
