As Illinois faces bitterly cold temperatures, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) reminds people of the health dangers of extremely low temperatures and tips on how to stay warm, including guarding against frostbite and hypothermia. 

Parts of the body most commonly affected by frostbite due to exposed skin include the face, ears, hands, and feet.  Frostbitten skin is whitish and stiff, and the area will feel numb rather than painful.  To treat frostbite, warm the affected part of the body gradually. 

Wrap the frostbitten area in blankets, sweaters, coats, etc. and seek medical attention immediately.  Do not rub frostbitten areas because the friction can damage the tissue.  Hypothermia is caused by a drop in body temperature to 95 degrees Fahrenheit (F) or less and can be fatal if not detected promptly and treated properly.  The condition usually develops over a period of time, anywhere from a few days to several weeks. 

Even mildly cool indoor temperatures of 60 to 65 degrees can trigger hypothermia.  Infants and the elderly are particularly at risk of hypothermia. 

Signs of hypothermia include forgetfulness, drowsiness, slurred speech, weak pulse, slow heartbeat and very slow, shallow breathing.  A drop in temperature below 90 degrees can create a life-threatening situation.  To prevent further heat loss, wrap the person in a warm blanket.  

Do not give a hypothermia victim a hot shower or bath because it could cause shock.  Do not try to treat hypothermia at home.  The condition should be treated in a hospital.  People who need to be outside should follow these tips:

• Wear several layers of lightweight clothing rather than one or two layers of heavy garments.  The air between the layers of clothing acts as insulation.
• Cover your head.  You lose as much as 50 percent of your body heat through your head.
• Wear mittens rather than fingered gloves.
• Wear warm leg coverings and heavy socks or two pairs of lightweight socks.
• Wear waterproof boots or sturdy shoes that give you maximum traction.
• Cover your ears and the lower part of your face.  The ears, nose, chin, and forehead are most susceptible to frostbite.  Cover your mouth with a scarf to protect the lungs from directly inhaling extremely cold air.

 Weathering Winter information can be found on the IDPH website, and additional safety information is available on the state’s Ready Illinois website at www.Ready.Illinois.gov.