Preventing Frostbite

Filed in archive Winter Adventures on December 16, 2006

Frostbite is caused by localized (as in fingers, hands, toes, feet, nose, etc.) cooling or freezing of tissue caused by constriction of blood vessels and shunting of blood away from these areas. Here are some quick tips from the Wilderness Medicine Newsletter to print out or keep in mind to prevent frostbite during your winter excursions:

• Keep the whole body warm - if your feet are cold, put on a hat.
  


• Eat and drink to maintain constant energy/heat production.
  


• dehydration contributes to the risk of frostbite.
  


• Low blood sugar contributes to the risk of frostbite
  - you need fuel to burn, "logs on the fire."
  


• STAY DRY! CARRY AND USE RAINGEAR - TOPS & BOTTOMS!
  


• Pack extra socks, hats, mittens, and any other clothing that is likely to get wet.
  


• Wear wool or pile (cotton is warm only as long as it is dry).
  


• Once wet - cotton becomes the death cloth.
  


• Avoid alcohol and tobacco.
  


• Avoid tight clothing, boots, crampons.
  


• Watch out for each other.
  


• Rewarm cool or numb areas early - to prevent damage.

Get more information on cold related injuries from the newsletter.