There are numerous hazards that come with cold weather, frostbite being one of the worst. It’s important to know how to prevent frostbite so one can avoid the painful and sometimes dangerous consequences that arise.
Simply put, frostbite is a condition where the skin freezes, causing serious damage to the nerves and tissue. Usually, it affects the fingers, toes, and ears and is brought on by exposure to cold temperatures or contact with ice or icy water.
Symptoms
Symptoms can show up in less than half an hour during exposure to cold temperatures, so it’s important to know how to prevent it. Common symptoms of frostbite include burning and numbness in fingers, toes, and other exposed areas, discolored skin (appears red, blue, or white depending on the stage), blisters, and swelling. If frostbite is expected, it’s very important to get indoors as soon as possible and seek medical attention.
Precautions
Some precautions to take to prevent frostbite include wearing appropriate clothes for cold weather. Try to wear layers of warm clothes and include a hat and gloves to keep fingers and ears protected. Make sure the clothes are light and breathable to allow in air. Wear adequate footwear and warm socks to protect your toes (try opting for two pairs of socks if possible). Synthetic materials are your friend in cold weather; cotton garments will retain moisture against your skin, putting you in direct danger of hypothermia.
It’s also important to shorten the amount of time spent in freezing temperatures and to keep clothes dry. If temperatures are below 5F, it’s probably best to avoid being outdoors altogether. At these temperatures, frostbite can set in very quickly. On the other hand, frostnip is considered a moderate form of frostbite and usually causes red skin and numbness. If symptoms of frostnip arise, it’s important to treat them before it progresses into frostbite, the damage from which often cannot be reversed.
Related articles: 10 Tips for Avoiding Frostbite or How to Prevent Frostbite in Extreme Cold
Featured Image from Galina N/Unsplash
