Avoiding frostbite: 5 tips for staying safe in the cold
February 21, 2024
Driving in winter can be risky any time you’re exposed to the cold for an extended period. And this isn’t just a matter of feeling chilly; it can be outright dangerous. Frostbite is a particular worry because it actually freezes exposed skin and underlying tissue. A severe case can take weeks or even months to fully heal which is not only uncomfortable, it can also put a chill on your paycheck if you have to take time off of work!
Whether you’re in your vehicle, in a parking lot or at a dock, you’re susceptible to frostbite once the temperature drops below freezing—and the colder it is, the faster you’re likely to get it. At -15ºF (-26ºC) with even a bit of wind, frostbite is possible within 15 minutes. You’re even at risk in milder temperatures if your clothes or skin get wet.
The good news is that by taking a few precautions and understanding the risk, you can avoid frostbite altogether. Here are 5 essential tips for protecting yourself once the cold weather hits.
- Plan ahead
- Bundle up
- Be prepared
- Know the symptoms
- Treat it early
Plan ahead
Check the weather before you leave and alter your route to avoid traffic slowdowns or weather that might keep you stuck in your vehicle. Check the wind chill as well as the temperature. You’re at greater risk of frostbite when you’re out in the wind because you’ll lose body heat more quickly.
Don’t assume that frostbite won’t be an issue in warmer climates. Regions not typically affected by winter storms have recently been experiencing more of them and may not be well-prepared to manage severe conditions. You’re more likely to be stuck in the cold in these areas, where storm or accident clean-ups may take longer. Install at least one weather app on your mobile device and set it to “location” or GPS mode to make sure you get alerts no matter where you are.
Bundle up
Invest in quality outerwear like a warm, waterproof coat and boots. Clothing that keeps you both warm and dry provides extra protection because wet clothing quickly chills the body and puts you at greater risk of frostbite. A quality sealant will help your boots stay waterproof. Choose a coat that will be effective in the coldest climates you’re passing though by checking the temperature rating before you buy.
Your head and neck are major sources of heat loss, so always wear a hat and scarf or facemask when you’re out in the cold. Wear insulated gloves and warm socks to protect your extremities, the areas that frostbite affects first, and dress in layers to keep your body heat in and the cold out.
Be prepared
Stock your emergency kit with extra socks, gloves, boots, hats and a coat for maximum warmth or in case you get wet. Bring a candle in a tin can to provide both light and heat and a blanket and insulated sleeping bag to keep you warm if you’re stranded in your vehicle. Share your blanket with your co-driver, if you have one, as two people sharing will be warmer than each person having their own blanket.
Know the symptoms
Frostbite affects you in stages and treating symptoms early can stop them from getting worse. Signs of mild frostbite include red or stiff and waxy skin and numbness or a ‘pins and needles’ sensation. With more serious frostbite, your skin may turn pale or blue and become swollen. In severe cases, muscles close to the frostbitten area may not work properly and blisters may develop.
Treat it early
When you first notice signs of frostbite, get out of the cold. You can treat mild symptoms yourself, but seek medical attention if your symptoms have progressed.
Once inside:
- Remove any wet clothes and wrap yourself in a warm blanket
- Don’t rub any affected areas that have already thawed
- Don’t thaw the affected areas if they may freeze again
- Drink warm liquids, like tea, coffee or soup
- Don’t drink alcohol as it can interfere with your blood circulation
Gently rewarm frostbitten fingers or toes by soaking them in very warm, but not hot, water for 20 to 30 minutes. For other areas, apply a washcloth soaked in warm water. Never use direct heat, like a heating pad, to rewarm frostbitten skin, as this can cause burns.
Winter driving is challenging enough without the stress of dealing with falling temperatures when you’re on the road. By planning ahead for the worst and treating frostbite symptoms before they cause damage you can stay safe and warm, even in the coldest weather.