Frostbite & Hypothermia
In cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it can be produced, which can lead to serious health problems.
When going outside in the cold, be sure to wear a hat, a scarf or knit mask that covers your face and mouth, a water-resistant coat, mittens or gloves, water-resistant boots, and several layers of loose-fitting clothing.
Make sure body parts most often affected are covered in warm, dry clothing: nose, ears, toes, cheeks, chin, fingers.
How to Spot Frostbite & Hypothermia
Frostbite Symptoms
- Redness or pain in any skin area may be the first sign of frostbite.
- A white or grayish-yellow skin area
- Skin that feels unusually firm or waxy
- Numbness
Hypothermia Symptoms
Adults
- Shivering
- Exhaustion
- Confusion
- Fumbling hands
- Memory loss
- Slurred speech
- Drowsiness
Infants
- Bright red, cold skin
- Very low energy
If a person's temperature is below 95 degrees, get medical attention immediately.

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention