As we go into our coldest weekend, it’s important for everyone to be aware of cold and frostbite safety. 

What is frostbite?

Frostbite occurs when the skin freezes and is damaged during exposure to freezing temperatures. It usually affects the fingers, toes, cheeks, nose, chin, and ears. 

What does frostbite look and feel like?

• Redness and pain in early stages.

• White or grayish-yellow skin as frostbite progresses.

• Skin that feels unusually firm or waxy.

• Numbness of skin. 

How to treat frostbite?

• Move indoors as soon as you can.

• If feet are affected, do not walk on them unless absolutely necessary to prevent further damage. 

• Do not rub frostbitten skin as this can also cause more damage. 

• Immerse affected skin in warm - not hot- water. 

• If warm water is not available, warm the affected area using body heat. For example you can use the heat of an armpit to warm frostbitten fingers. 

• Do NOT use a heating pad, electric blanket, heat lamp, stove, fireplace or radiator as numb areas can easily burn.

• Apply dry dressing to damaged skin. 

• Seek medical care. 

Why do we worry about frostbite?

• If not treated it can cause permanent skin and tissue damage and can, in the worst cases, even lead to amputation. 

How to prevent frostbite?

• This is the easy part!

• Stay inside if at all possible.

• If you absolutely must go outside, limit your exposure time. 

• Keep ALL skin areas completely covered all the time when outside.