DO YOU KNOW THE
STAGES OF FROSTBITE?
Frostnip: Surface skin freezes, is yellow/white, soft and cold to the touch.
Partial Thickness: Skin is white, hard; but deep tissues are not affected. Blisters may appear black and may heal in a month.
Full Thickness: Area is pale white, numb, and feels wooden. Nerves, blood vessles, muscles and tendons freeze, causing serious damage.
WHY DO PEOPLE GET FROSTBITE?
Dehydration: Not drinking enough water. Hydrate yourself before going out.
Tight clothing/boots: Reduces blood circulation.
Wet clothing: Wool will keep you warm when it is wet.
Hunger: Eat breakfast and carry snacks.
Medications, alcohol, & smoking reduce blood circulation.
Extreme cold and wind chill: Make sure you dress properly for the weather.
TREATING MILD FROSTBITE
Remove wet clothing, putting on something dry.
Warm your hands on your belly.
Soaking in 99 to 105 degree warm water for 15 minutes.
Do not use hot water.
Shaking, rubbing, or massaging may increase damage to area.
If you have extreme frostbite, see a doctor immediately.
Thawling and refreezing may cause more damage.
