Frostbite occurs when the body's tissues freeze deeply in the cold. Ice crystals that form in the tissues cause damage to the cells. It's important not to try to rewarm or treat frosbite until relatively certain that the tissues will not refreeze. Once frostbite is identified, make sure to prevent further damage.
Frostbitten tissue looks white or very pale. It usually has a waxy and hard appearance. Victims often cannot feel frostbitten tissue. Many times, victims will not recognize frostbite.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 1-2 Hours
Here's How:
- Stay Safe! It's more important to make sure no one else is injured by the cold. Only help if you can do so safely. Follow universal precautions and wear personal protective equipment if you have it.
- Remove the victim from the cold. DO NOT attempt to thaw frostbitten tissues if there is a possbility they could freeze again.
- Fill a shallow container with enough water to cover the frostbitten body part. Make sure the water is tepid (room temperature). The water does not have to be cool, but it cannot be too warm. The warmer the water, the worse the pain.
- Contine to refresh the water in the container as it cools. Keep the water at the same temperature as consistently as possible. It may take several hours to completely thaw severe frostbite.
- As soon as feasible, get the victim to medical assistance - even after thawing frostbite.
Tips:
- DO NOT allow thawed tissue to freeze again. The more often tissue freezes and thaws, the deeper the damage. If the victim will soon be exposed to freezing temperatures again, wait to treat frostbite.
- NEVER rub or massage frostbitten tissue. Rubbing frostbitten tissue will result in more severe damage.
- DO NOT use any heating devices, stoves, or fires to treat frostbite. Victims cannot feel the frostbitten tissue and can be burned easily.
- In a pinch, body heat can be used to thaw frostbite. For example, placing frostbitten fingers under the arm.
What You Need:
- Sink, tub, or other container deep enough to cover the frostbitten part.
