Frostbite
To prevent frostbite...
* wear hats that cover the ears;
* use mittens instead of gloves;
* dress children in snowsuits that protect them from the
wind;
* make sure clothing stays dry;
* dress in layers;
* make sure boots are well insulated;
* avoid contact with metal objects or fluids which do not
freeze; and
* be aware of the wind chill factor.
| Look for... superficial freezing * tingling, burning sensation, or pain; * white skin, hard to touch. deep freezing |
Infants and small children are at greatest risk of cold injury.
To give first aid...
* go indoors if possible;
* wiggle toes and fingers, and move
around;
* remove wet clothing; and
* place affected area against
warmer skin.
Consult doctor if...
* colour does not return shortly following first aid
treatment;
* more than the tips of ears, nose, and fingers are
affected;
* blistering or peeling is present;
* there is severe pain; or
* there is deep freezing.
Hypothermia
To prevent a lowering of body temperature...
* know the weather conditions, and dress for them;
* avoid going outside when wind chill is -26° C or lower;
* cover the head; at temperatures below -5° C, over half of the body's total heat can be lost through a bare head;
* protect the body with wind-proof clothing; and
* avoid overheating by over-dressing, or over-exerting.
| Look for... mild hypothermia * uncontrollable shivering; or * numbness. severe hypothermia |
Wind, wet, and low temperatures
can cause cold injuries.
To give first aid...
* bring the child to a warm, dry place;
* remove wet clothing and replace with dry clothing or
blankets;
* offer a warm drink if conscious; and
* warm the child; use your body heat, and huddle with
the child under a blanket.
Consult doctor if...
* first aid does not quickly control shivering, or relieve
numbness.
If hypothermia is severe, call an ambulance (911) immediately!
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Last Revised/Reviewed
Wednesday, 2008-06-25 2:39 PM