Facts
  • Frostbite can occur in minutes when the temperature is below 20 degrees Fahrenheit and winds are over 20 miles per hour.
  • Some cases result in permanent damage causing chronic pain, sensitivity to cold, and numbness. In extreme cases amputation may be necessary.
  • Because the amount of tissue destruction is proportional to the time it remains frozen, rapid transport to a hospital is very important

 

Causes of Injury
  • Freezing of body parts exposed to:
    • cold temperature
    • moisture
    • wind

 

Planning / Packing Guide
  • Layers of clothing:
    • First layer of silk or other breathable synthetic long underwear.
    • Second loose layer traps insulating air covering arms, wrists, and neck.
    • Third layer to absorb moisture; should be easy to remove to avoid overheating.
    • Last outer layer will face the elements and act as a shell against rain, cold, or sun. It should breathe or have vents. Pants with zip-off legs in water-resistant fabrics are ideal for all temperatures.
  • Wool cap
  • Insulated waterproof gloves
  • Socks:
    • Thin layer of socks against the skin
    • Thick layer of wool or synthetic socks

 

Symptoms
  • There are 3 degrees of frostbite:
    • 1st degree: irritates the skin
      • burning
      • numbness
      • tingling
      • itching
      • cold sensations
      • white, frozen areas
      • some resistance when pressed
      • pain
    • 2nd degree: blisters with no major damage
      • decrease in sensation
      • swelling and blood-filled blisters
      • white or yellow waxy skin
      • might appear purplish-blue when re-warming
      • hard with less resistance when pressed
      • pain and throbbing
    • 3rd degree: involves all skin layers with permanent damage
      • complete loss of sensation
      • no resistance when pressed
      • purplish or blackened skin
      • intense pain when re-warming

 

First Aid
  • Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
  • Watch for signs of Hypothermia.
    Saving a life is more important than preserving a limb.
  • Move to a warm area to prevent further skin damage.
  • Remove all wet clothing and constrictive jewelry.
  • Elevate the affected body part.
  • Apply a dry, sterile bandage or cotton between any involved fingers or toes.
  • Avoid walking on frostbitten feet.
  • Avoid a gradual thaw either in the field or in the transport vehicle.
  • Never rewarm an affected area if there is any chance it may freeze again.
    The thaw-refreeze cycle can cause serious damage.
  • Do not rub the frozen area.

 

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