Frostbite

Winter is a time for many outdoor activities for you and your family.  Keep your family healthy by preventing, detecting and treating cold related injuries promptly.  Children are at risk to develop frostbite, which is when body tissue freezes.  The skin with frostnip (1st degree frostbite) appears white and feels numb and may be treated at home. Frostbite (2nd and 3rd degree) appears white or blue, is waxy, numb and hard and should have medical attention.  Keep a look out for cheeks, nose, ears, fingers and toes. 

• Dress in layers for warmth. Wear a hat that covers the ears.  Wear gloves. Consider a facemask.  Have warm, waterproof boots. 

• Bring your child in for inspection periodically on a cold or windy day. 

• Keep your child in and remove wet clothing if there are signs of frostnip.  Also, watch for hypothermia (low body temperature) 

• Immerse affected area in warm water (not hot water) and do not let your child check the water temperature, as his skin may be numb. 

• Frostbite should not be rubbed, should not be thawed with direct heat, or thawed if there is risk of refreezing.  Do not walk on frostbit feet. Seek medical treatment. 

For more information check out www.kidshealth.org or www.outdoorplaces.com