Frostbite vs. Hypothermia

10/25/2021 (Permalink)

Our team at SERVPRO of Chesterfield and SERVPRO of Tri-Cities, Plus cares about the dangers that colder weather has on your home. However, we also care about the affects of the cold on YOU and your family, as well. The frosty weather is starting to come in and the days are getting colder and colder. Can you recognize the signs of frostbite and hypothermia? Do you know what to do if you DO see signs of either?

Frostbite: Can cause loss of feeling and color around fingers, face, and toes.

Signs of a problem: Skin can start to feel firm or waxy. You may experience numbness and skin can be greyish-yellow in color

What to do: Cover exposed skin from the elements and seek shelter in a warm room. Soak affected body part in warm water to start warming area back up. DO NOT massage area or use a heating pad to warm up.

Hypothermia: Caused by a large drop in body temperature. Anything below 95 degrees is an emergency scenario

Signs of a problem: Loss of dexterity and memory, Confusion and exhaustion, shivering, slowed/slurred speech, drowsiness.

What to do: Do your best to cover any exposed skin from the elements and insulate the affected person as much as possible while seeking shelter in a warm room. Start warming the body from the center out. Chest, neck, and head should be warmed first. It is important to keep the person dry and wrapped up in warm blankets including both the head and neck.