I know, California isn’t cold when you talk to some people, but for us living here, a drop in temperature is felt and we need to react since we are not used to what we consider cold.  We all need to fall back on training when the temperatures drop.  A quick summary of your training is below to refresh your memory.

Goals

1. Recognize the hazards and symptoms of exposure to cold.
2. Know how to prevent and respond to cold exposure.

Overexposure to Cold—Indoors or Outdoors—Can Be Harmful to Health

Frostbite. Body tissues may freeze when skin is exposed to extreme cold or touches a very cold object.

1. The nose, ears, cheeks, fingers, and toes are at greatest risk.
2. Worst cases can cause permanent tissue damage, loss of movement in affected parts, and possibly unconsciousness and death from heart failure.
3. Damage may be greater if the body part is thawed, then refrozen.

Hypothermia. Exposure to cold may send body temperatures to dangerously low levels.

1. It can occur in above-freezing temperatures when it’s windy or you’re exhausted or wearing wet clothes.
2. Worst cases can lead to unconsciousness and death.

Factors that increase the risks of frostbite and hypothermia include:

• 1. Age
• 2. Overweight
• 3. Smoking and drinking
• 4. Certain medications, allergies, or poor circulation
• 5. Victims’ failure to recognize symptoms and take prompt action

Reduce the Risks of Exposure to Extreme Cold

1. Avoid bathing, smoking, or drinking alcohol before going into cold conditions.
2. Wear layers of loose, dry clothes. If possible, wear wool underneath and a waterproof layer on top.
3. Always cover hands, feet, face, and head in the cold
4. An uncovered head can make the body lose up to 40 percent of its heat.
5. Change or get dry immediately if clothes get wet.
6. Keep moving while working in the cold. Take regular breaks in warm areas.
7. Move to a warm area when you start to feel very cold or numb.
8. Have a warm alcohol-free, caffeine-free drink

Recognize Frostbite and Hypothermia Symptoms

Frostbite symptoms include:

• Feeling extremely cold, then numb—with possible tingling, aching, or brief pain.
• White or grayish yellow glossy skin, which may blister.
• Confusion, failing eyesight, and shock as condition progresses.

Hypothermia symptoms include:

• Chills, shivering, numbness and sometimes pain in the extremities.
• Slurred speech, poor coordination, confusion, drowsiness.

Respond Quickly and Correctly to Frostbite and Hypothermia Symptoms

1. Act immediately when symptoms develop to prevent serious problems

• Move to a warm place.
• Replace frozen, wet, or tight clothes with warm clothes or blankets.
• Drink a warm beverage—without alcohol or caffeine.
• Get medical help after first aid treatment.
• Take first aid actions for frostbite:

1. a. Warm the frozen part immediately with blankets or warm (not hot) water.
2. Avoid touching the frozen part; don’t rub or hit it.
3. Keep the frozen part away from hot stoves, heat lamps or hot water bottles.
4. Don’t break blisters or drink anything with caffeine.
5. Exercise the body part once it’s warm—but don’t walk on frostbitten feet

• Take first aid actions for hypothermia:

1. Cover victim with blankets—and/or lie next to person to give body heat.
2. DON’T use hot baths, electric blankets, or hot water bottles.
3. Keep the person awake and give artificial respiration if needed.
4. Get emergency help immediately if the person loses consciousness.

Summation: When It’s Cold, Be Constantly Alert to Health Hazards

Dress and move to prevent frostbite and hypothermia. Act immediately if you or someone around you experiences any symptoms.