Hypothermia & Frostbite: Recognizing Symptoms and Treatment

tempfirstaidBlog, Provincial First Aid Requirements

Hypothermia & Frostbite: Recognizing Symptoms and Treatment Winter in Canada is a special season. We pride ourselves on our snowy, long and ‘Canadian’ winter season. There are some reasons to be bitter (excuse the pun), but others reasons to rejoice. Skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and tobogganing are some of the most fun you can have in a winter wonderland. But without protection from the cold temperatures in the form of a winter coat, hat, gloves and boots, our bodies would not function properly, and could be permanently damaged after extended exposure to the elements. Here we discuss some common, and …

Signs, Symptoms & Treatment: Frostbite & Hypothermia

tempfirstaidBlog, First Aid

Frostbite Exposure to below-freezing temperatures causes frostbite. Frostbite can affect any area of the skin, however is most common in hands, feet, face and ears. It is important to understand the symptoms of frostbite to prevent this serious condition from progressing. Signs & Symptoms Aching pain Numbness Skin feels hard and waxy Skin is white and/or gray-yellowish in colour Treatment If you are without immediate medical attention and believed you are dealing with frostbite call a doctor right away. Begin by finding shelter, ideally indoors Do not attempt to thaw the frostbite as this can cause permanent damage Remove all …