Frostbite

What is frostbite?

Frostbite is damage to the skin from freezing and is due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures, usually below 32° F. It occurs when ice crystals form in the skin or deeper tissue. The most common sites for frostbite are the fingers, hands, toes, feet, ears, nose and cheeks. The severity depends on several factors including temperature, length of exposure, wind-chill factor, dampness and type of clothing worn. Children are more prone to frostbite than adults because they lose heat from their skin faster and do not want to come inside when having fun playing outdoors.

• Skin is reddened and then becomes white, hard and swollen
• Skin burns, tingles or becomes numb

• Remain calm and reassure your child that you can help. If feet are affected, carry your child; do not allow your child to walk.
• Move your child inside to a warm area and put your child in dry clothes. Call your child's physician or take your child to the emergency room immediately. Frostbite can cause serious injury and needs immediate medical attention.
• While waiting for medical assistance:
  • Give your child something warm to drink and wrap a blanket around your child.
  • Warm the skin by using warm compresses or immersing the area in warm water (100 to 105° F) until sensation returns. 
  • Do not rub or massage the skin. 
  • Do not use direct heat such as heating pads or fires.
  • Do not place the frostbitten skin in snow to "warm" it.
  • Apply clean cotton or gauze between fingers and toes if they are affected.
  • Do not disturb any blisters.
  • Wrap warmed areas of the skin to prevent further damage.

• Dress your child warmly in layers. Make sure ears, fingers and toes are well covered.
• Change clothing if it becomes wet, especially socks and mittens.
• Bring your child indoors often to warm up and provide a warm snack, soup or drink.
• Be alert for early signs of frostnip and frostbite and teach your child what signs to watch for.