| Watch for early symptoms of dehydration
including decreased coordination, lethargy, and impaired
thinking. Left untreated, dehydration can eventually
lead to heat cramps. If you feel symptoms of dehydration
or heat cramps, replenish lost fluids and electrolytes
through a sports drink or by eating salty foods and
drinking water.
Frostbite is when your skin begins to freeze due to
prolonged exposure to cold conditions. It usually happens
to your feet, ears, nose, or fingers, but any skin
that’s
exposed can be affected. Dress properly – in
warm layers and with a hat, scarf and gloves - to prevent
frostbite. Watch for symptoms including white or yellowish-gray
skin that looks swollen or waxy; itchy, tingly, painful
or numb skin; blistering (in severe cases).
If you feel symptoms of frostbite, immediately get indoors
and into warm, dry clothing. Warm the affected body
part by immersing it in warm water until the sensation
returns. CAUTION: Do not use hot water! Get medical
attention as soon as possible.
Hypothermia is abnormally low body temperature resulting
from exposure to cold temperatures. Dress properly –
in warm layers and with a hat - to prevent hypothermia.
Watch for symptoms including shivering, confusion,
slurred speech, drowsiness, low energy.
If you feel symptoms of hypothermia immediately get
indoors and into warm, dry clothing. Wrap yourself in
a warm blanket and drink a warm beverage (not alcohol
or hot coffee). Get medical attention as soon as possible.
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