12/05/2025
With the colder temperatures on their way, it is a good idea to go over some things to remember when it comes to frostbite prevention and treatment. Remember, frostbite can occur in temperatures 32 degrees and below with a significant increase in risk when air temperature falls under 5 degrees. Remember to take into account the windchill. Windchill of -15 can cause frostbite in under 30 minutes. Time can fly by when you are having a fun family day sledding, or even just shoveling the driveway.
Those under 18 years of age and those who are older than 65 years are more susceptible. Also, those with circulation issues such as Reynolds, diabetes and smokers are going to have issues sooner due to restricted blood flow to the skin. The average age of frostbite occurrence is 42.8 years old and is more likely to be a man than a woman. The main factor being homelessness, second to outdoor recreation.
There are several things you can do to prevent frostbite. Keep an eye on the forecast. Plan to stay inside during below freezing temps or take frequent indoor breaks. Dress in layers to protect you and your children from the cold. Take along extra pairs of gloves and socks. If the gloves or socks get wet, change them right away. Wet skin freezes much quicker than dry skin. I remember putting bags over our socks before we put our boots on when I was a kid. I’m not sure if this is still in practice or not but I remember it really helping on those wet winter outings. Cover the face with scarves and have tissue handy to wipe wet faces due to snotty noses and moisture from breath and sweatKeep a bag in the trunk with extra blankets, boots, hats, gloves and water in case of car trouble. Dehydration can also complicate frostbite.
Frostbite is divided into three different stages. Frostnip is a mild form of frostbite. The first thing one might notice when superficial frostbite occurs is a cold, painful, tingly feeling usually on the fingers, toes, nose, cheeks or chin. You will also notice a change in the color of skin. It could be a darker or lighter color depending on your skin tone and the severity of the burn. The colors could consist of red, white, blue, yellow, purple, brown or ash. You may also notice the texture of the skin may look different. The skin could take on a hard, waxy or a dry, cracked appearance. You may even develop red blisters several hours later. Minor burns will be filled with a clear liquid. If you notice blood filled blisters, this is a sign there is significant damage to the deeper layers of the skin and is called deep frostbite. This type of frostbite causes permanent damage to the skin.
The most important thing to do is to get to a dry, warm area. Re-warm the skin gently and slowly with other warm body areas. Try not to rub or massage the area since it may cause further skin damage. The skin in that area will be fragile. You can also soak the area in warm water (100-105 degrees) up to 30 minutes. If your frostbite is severe, you may need to seek medical help. Some severe forms of frostbite need surgical intervention to remove the damaged tissue and can also lead to gangrene.
There are so many fun activities to enjoy during our beautiful Michigan Winters including sledding, skiing, skating, ice fishing, and hiking. Take a few minutes to prepare ahead to keep those activities fun and safe!
