As Arctic Blast Looms, Here’s Everything You Should Know About Frostbite And Hypothermia

How To Fend Off Frostbite, Hypothermia

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With a blast of arctic cold expected for much of the U.S. in the coming days, it won't take much for things to turn dangerous, especially for anyone outdoors.

Here’s how you can keep warm and safe ahead of the extreme cold.

(​MORE: Arctic Cold Outbreak Could Smash Records From Washington State To The Gulf Coast)

Know Your Risk

According to the Mayo Clinic, certain groups of people are at a higher risk of getting frostbite and hypothermia. They include:

-People outdoors for long periods of time, like skiers, hikers, hunters and the unhoused.

-Anyone who works outside in harsh conditions, such as maintenance crews, rescue workers and park rangers.

-The very young and very old, whose bodies are more vulnerable to temperature changes.

-People with medical conditions that affect their blood vessels, like diabetes, or those on beta blockers.

-People who smoke, drink alcohol or use drugs.

(​MORE: Winter Storm Gerri Prompts Blizzard Warnings In Parts Of Midwest, Great Lakes)

DON’T:

-Drink alcohol or smoke, as these activities can make your body more sensitive to acute cold.

-Underestimate high winds and the impact they can have on “feels like” temperatures.

-Put on any clothing that’s wet or stay in wet clothing longer than you have to.

-Wear clothes that are too tight and can hurt your circulation.

-Leave your mittens at home: mittens provide better protection than gloves when it comes to cold weather!

(​MORE: Essential Tips To Stay Safe In Winter Storms)

DO:

-Stay hydrated, fed and rested. Food high in carbohydrates can be extra helpful, according to the U.S. Forest Service.

-Opt for outer layers that are water and wind-proof, and inner layers that will stay warm all day long.

-Double up on socks and make sure your shoes won’t let in moisture.

-Prioritize protecting your head, ears and neck, since they're prone to more heat loss.

-Leave home with a fully charged phone and tell people where you’re going, just in case.

Look Out For Symptoms

The Connecticut Department of Public Health warns frostbite can start out as a “pins and needles” feeling in your extremities, with throbbing or aching. The skin becomes cold, numb and white. Hands, feet, ears, nose and lips are most likely to be affected.

Prolonged exposure to cold will cause further tissue damage, making the area feel hard and frozen. Later, the skin will turn red and blister, giving way to an itching and burning feeling.

In advanced cases, the skin can turn black as tissue dies. This is known as necrosis and requires urgent medical attention.

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What About Hypothermia?

Hypothermia is more serious than frostbite. It occurs when the body’s temperature drops so low that it affects the brain, making the victim unable to think clearly or move well. Initial symptoms include drowsiness; weakness, pale and cold skin; uncontrollable shivering; and confusion.

(​MORE: Hypothermia Indoors: How Cold Is Too Cold?)

If you think someone may have hypothermia, take their temperature. If it's below 95 degrees, get them to a doctor immediately.

In the meantime, move the person inside if possible, remove any wet clothing and focus on warming the center of their body first (head, neck, chest and groin). Do not use direct heat such as hot water, a heating pad, or a heat lamp to warm the person.

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