Teach Your Kids...How to recognize hypothermia and other cold-weather-related emergencies!

 The two most common cold-weather-related emergencies that are most important to teach your children about are hypothermia and frostbite. Read to learn about the signs and symptoms, along with the top 5 ways to prevent hypothermia and frostbite!

What is Hypothermia?

According to the CDC, hypothermia, abnormally low body temperatures, can happen when your body is using more of its stored energy (heat) than it can produce. This is most common when you are exposed to cold temperatures for an extended period of time.

​Hypothermia is dangerous because if someone's body temperature gets too low, it could affect their brain function which could limit movement and the ability to get out of the cold.

Signs & Symptoms of Hypothermia:

Early Symptoms:

• Shivering
• Numbness
• Glassy stare
• Fatigue
• Loss of coordination
• Confusion and disorientation

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​Late Symptoms

• No shivering
• Blue skin
• Dilated pupils
• Slowed pulse and breathing
• Loss of consciousness & impaired judgment

What is Frostbite?

Frostbite can also occur due to extended exposure to cold temperatures, however, frostbite occurs when body parts such as fingertip, toes, ears, nose, and cheeks begin to freeze due to prolonged exposure.

Frostbite is dangerous because it can lead to permanent tissue damages such as amputation.
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Signs & Symptoms of Frostbite:

• Reduced blood flow to hands and feet (fingers or toes can freeze)
• Numbness in the affected area
• Tingling or stinging
• Aching
• Bluish or pale, waxy skin

Top 5 ways to prevent hypothermia and frostbite?

1. Dress warmly when exposed to cold weather: wearing warm jackets, plenty of layers, boots, scarves, gloves, hats.
2. If you are exposed to cold weather for a long period of time, keep moving
3. Drink plenty of warm fluids or warm water (avoid caffeine and alcohol)
4. Look at the weather before heading out, especially the wind chill
5. Get out of the cold immediately if you see signs of frostbite or hypothermia

Teaching your little ones how to recognize hypothermia and frostbite could prevent them from experiencing these cold-weather-related emergencies! Know which signs to recognize while your family enjoying some fun activities outside this winter!

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