Facts
  • When more heat is lost than your body can generate, hypothermia results.
  • Hypothermia occurs when internal body temperature falls less than 95 F (35 C).
  • Because hypothermia is life-threatening, emergency intervention is needed.

 

Causes of Injury
  • Entire body loses heat
  • Cold, wet or windy weather
  • Wet, or inadequate clothing
  • Immersion into cold water
  • Uncovered head
  • Fatigue

 

Prevention
  • Dress for extremes of cold.
  • Layer clothing to allow for changes in temperature.
  • Keep dry by wearing rain jacket and pants as top layer in wet weather because it keeps you drier than poncho style rain gear.
  • Bring an extra set of clothing in waterproof bag in case clothing gets wet.
  • Wear head covering.
  • Eat and drink small amounts regularly to keep body core warm.

 

Planning/Packing Guide
  • Layers of clothing:
    • First layer should be silk or other breathable synthetic long underwear. Avoid cotton.
    • Second loose layer traps insulating air covering arms, wrists & neck.
    • Third layer, to absorb moisture from second layer, should be easy to remove to avoid overheating. When hot, remove layer before sweating.
    • Last outer layer will face the elements and act as a shell against rain, 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
  • Uncontrollable shivering
  • Numbness
  • Glassy stare
  • Slurred speech
  • Having to exercise to stay warm
  • Exposed skin turning pale or blue
  • Foggy thinking / mind wanders / confusion / memory loss
  • Loss of coordination
  • Slow pulse and respirations
  • Fatigue, lethargy or apathy
  • Unconsciousness
  • Observe for frostbite

 

First Aid
  • Seek shelter.
  • Remove wet clothing and replace with dry clothing.
  • Cover the head.
  • Insulate body from cold ground.
  • Place victim in blankets or a sleeping bag. (another person can share the bag for added heat)
  • Give warm, non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated drinks.
  • Keep the victim awake.
  • Monitor breathing – may need CPR.
  • Apply warm compresses to neck, chest and groin.
  • Do NOT warm arms and legs as this would force cold blood back into heart, lungs, and brain causing a fatal temperature drop.
  • Do NOT immerse in warm water or warm quickly as this could cause heart problems.
  • Do NOT massage or rub the person because they are at risk for cardiac arrest.

 

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