The joy of the first snowfall brings an entryway filled with winter coats, single gloves, wet boots, and red-cheeked children. Getting outdoors is good for everyone, and dressing appropriately is essential to protect little fingers and toes. Hypothermia and front bite are primary dangers from reduced body temperatures and freezing skin and tissue.
Destiney Storms, LPN, Bright Start home visiting nurse for the South Dakota Foundation for Medical Care (SDFMC), expressed, “Exercise and being outdoors is crucial for our physical and mental health, especially during the long winter months. There are times when it is not safe to travel and be outside. That is why it is important to be aware of the weather and know how to safely enjoy being outside when it is cold.”
Children are at greater risk for frostbite because their bodies are smaller, and they lose heat more quickly. The excitement of sledding, snowman building, skiing, and ice skating can distract children from the dangers of cold. Temperatures can be impacted quickly by wind, and playing outside should avoided when windchills are below –15 degrees Fahrenheit.
To preserve the joy of fun winter memories, use these outdoor safety tips to prevent harm from frostbite.
- Observe fingers, toes, ears, and noses for initial signs of frostbite.
- Skin may start to hurt, burn, or go numb.
- Watch for white or pale gray color and the forming of blisters.
- Suspected frostbite should be managed through a gentle warm up process. Go inside and use warm washcloths on the affected areas. Avoid rubbing, popping blisters, or placing anything hot on the skin.
With hypothermia, a child may start shivering, a sign the body is trying to warm itself up, but then become sluggish, clumsy, or slur their words. Call 911 right away. Until help arrives, follow these tips:
- Go inside to remove wet clothing and cover core body parts in blankets or warm clothes.
- Give them something warm to drink.
- In worst case situations, CPR or mouth-to-mouth resuscitation may be needed if they stop breathing or lose a pulse.
Anyone can refer a family member, friend, or themselves to receive support from Bright Start by completing the referral form on the website.
