Learn to Recognize and Treat Hypothermia & Frostbite

Being able to identify the signs and symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite can help prevent illnesses and/or fatalities that can occur as a result. Learn to identify these cold illnesses and know what to do in the event you, or a co-worker experiences symptoms:

Hypothermia

• When experiencing hypothermia, the body temperature drops below 95 degrees
• In mild cases, shivering is present
• In severe conditions, shivering stops, and victim can become confused and/or slur speech. This Can lead to loss of consciousness and death
• Call 911 in the event of an emergency
• Move victim to warm area and remove wet articles of clothing
• Cover body with blankets and tarps

Frostbite

• Frostbite occurs when body tissues freeze
• This can occur in conditions above freezing due to wind
• Amputation of affected areas can result if not treated promptly
• Symptoms include red skin with white/gray patches, skin feels numb and/or hard to the touch
• Do not walk on frostbitten feet or rub frostbitten area to avoid damage to tissues
• Do not attempt to rewarm affected area(s) unless directed to by emergency response personnel
• Protect skin from contact by loosely covering affected area