A Note from our Nurse

Frostbite—A Winter Weather Hazard

Frostbite is a condition in which skin or part of the body becomes partially frozen due to exposure to cold. Body parts most likely to be frostbitten are the fingers, toes, ears, nose and cheeks. In the beginning stages of frostbite, the skin will become very red and then pale.

DO:

Do bring the child indoors.
Do warm the area in a pan of lukewarm water.
If hands or feet are affected, elevate them above the heart level.
Keep exposed areas dry to help prevent more frostbite.

DO NOT:

Do not rub or massage the area.
Do not warm with a heating pad.
Do not break blisters that have formed.

CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF:

The skin blisters.
The area feels numb after 15 minutes of warming.
The skin is cold, white, hard and waxy feeling. This usually means the frostbite is severe.

PREVENTION:

Protect children from cold, wind and moisture.
Dress them in proper clothing:
Dress your child in several layers of light, loose clothing rather than one heavy garment.
Protect the child’s head and neck with a hat and scarf and his/her face with a mask.
For outdoor play, boots high enough to cover the ankles, two pairs of socks and mittens or gloves should be worn.
Try to make arrangements for your child’s transportation to and from school, instead of walking, on extremely cold days.

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