Stay Safe This Winter: How to Prevent and Treat Frostbite

Marshall Health Network wants to remind you that while winter weather can be beautiful, frostbite becomes a real risk when temperatures drop. As your body’s largest organ, your skin plays a crucial role in protecting you. Here’s what you need to know to stay safe this winter:

How to Prevent Frostbite

1. Bundle Up Right: Wear layers of warm clothing and make sure to cover your hands, head, ears, and feet with gloves, hats, and thick socks. Waterproof boots are a must!
2. Stay Dry: Wet clothes make you colder much faster, so stay dry and change out of wet clothing as soon as possible.
3. Limit Time Outside: Avoid being outdoors for long periods when it’s freezing. If you have to be outside, take frequent breaks to warm up.
4. Skip Alcohol: Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated but avoid alcohol—it lowers your body’s ability to retain heat and increases your risk of frostbite.

Frostbite First Aid

Frostbite often starts with numbness or tingling, followed by skin that turns pale, gray, or waxy looking. The affected area might feel hard or frozen. Severe cases can cause blisters. If you suspect frostbite:

1. Get to Warmth: Head indoors immediately.
2. Warm Up Slowly: Soak the frostbitten area in warm (not hot) water for up to 30 minutes or use body heat if water isn’t available. Do not use heating pads on your skin as they can cause skin burns.
3. Call a Doctor: If the skin doesn’t return to normal color or you see blisters, get medical help right away. Click here to find emergency and urgent care services available at Marshall Health Network.

Frostbite can happen faster than you think, especially when the wind chill is high. With a little preparation and care, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of extreme cold.