Baby it’s Cold Outside: Preventing Frostbite

It’s the first really cold day our area has had in about two years – maybe you need some reminders for how to prevent frostbite.  Frostbite is a serious condition and involves the skin freezing and losing normal sensations.  There is a reduction in oxygen and blood flow to the affected parts of the body, which are most often your feet and toes, hands, fingers nose or ears.

Children and the elderly are most at risk for frostbite, although most reported cases are in adults between the ages of 30 and 49 – so bundle up when you go outside.

Prevent Frostbite

• Make sure you take extra precautions for your feet, ears, hands and nose by wearing warm socks, mittens, and a ski mask or hat with a scarf over your face.
• Don’t spend time outdoors in wet clothing as it increases your risk for frostbite.
• Remember that drinking alcohol makes you feel warmer and may keep you from realizing just how cold your body is, so limit your alcohol consumption before going out in extremely cold weather.
• If you are a smoker, remember that your circulation is likely to be negatively affected and your risk for frostbite is higher.
• If any of your exposed skin gets red, turns white or blue or you experience pain anywhere – your body temperature is probably getting too cold and you should go inside and warm up.

[flickr.com]