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1. What is wind chill?

Wind chill is the perceived temperature resulting front he effect of wind, in combination with cold air, which incr3eases the rate of heat loss from the human body.

2. What is frostbite and what can you do to treat it?

Frostbite is damage to body tissue caused by that tissue being frozen. Frostbite causes a loss of feeling of a white or pale appearance in extremities, such as fingers, toe, ear lobes, or the tip of the nose. Frostbite varies in severity from frost-nip to deep frostbite, depending on the length of exposure, temperature to which the skin is exposed and wind speed. For frost-nip, place firm, steady pressure from a warm hand against the area. Also, blow on the surface holding the frost-nipped area against the body. Do not rub the area, apply snow or plunge it into very hot or cold water. Victims of severe frostbite must receive prompt medical attention.

3. What is hypothermia and what are the warming signs?

Hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops to 95 degrees F or lower. It can develop whenever body heat loss exceeds heat gain. Hypothermia is not exclusive to winter. It can occur during the wind and rain of spring and summer. Hypothermia is often mistaken for fatigue, irritability, or dehydration, and may include some of these signs: abnormal decision making; improper response to cold; apathy; lethargy; decreased cooperation; slurred speech; disorientation; shivering; stumbling; and stiffness progressing to inability to move.

4. How do you treat hypothermia?

Mild to moderate hypothermia (body temperature is greater than 90 degrees Fahrenheit, conscious, shivering, able to walk):

• Prevent further heat loss. Dry, remove from cold and insulate.
• Rewarm by warming the body core first. Rehydrate with warm broth.
• Seek medical attention.

Severe hypothermia (body temperature is less than 90 degrees Fahrenheit, unconscious, not shivering):

• Evacuate to rewarm.
• Prevent further heat loss.
• Seek immediate medical attention.