Cold-Related Emergencies: Key Points O Environment does not have to be extremely cold for a person to suffer a cold-related emergency, especially if the person is wet or if it is windy. O Young children are susceptible to cold-related emergencies b/c their body temperature regulating system is not fully developed. O The elderly can experience a cold-related emergency inside when exposed to lower temperatures over a period of time, as their temp. regulating mechanisms are sometimes impaired.

Frostbite vs. Hypothermia O Frostbite: A condition when the body tissue freezes after being exposed to the cold environment. O Hypothermia: A condition when the entire body cools because the body’s ability to regulate temperature fails. The person may die if not given prompt medical care.

Care for Hypothermia O Move person to warm place O Check ABC’s & care for shock O Remove wet clothing & cover with blankets O Monitor use of heating pads to avoid unintentional burns O Warm the person SLOWLY and handle person carefully.

Care for Frostbite O Remove wet clothing and jewelry from affected area O Soak the frostbitten area in WARM water O Cover with dry, sterile dressings. DO NOT rub the frostbitten area O Check ABC’s and care for shock O DO NOT rewarm a frostbitten part if there is a danger of it refreezing

Heat-Related Emergencies O What are some environmental conditions that could lead to a heat-relate emergency? O Doing strenuous activities outside on a hot day. O Working in a hot room with little air circulation, such as a kitchen. O Not drinking enough water while working in a warm environment. O Working in a building where the cooling system fails.

Heat-Related Illness O Heat Cramps: Least severe and often the first signal that the body is having trouble with heat. O Heat Exhaustion: A more severe condition than heat cramps. Affects athletes, firefighters, those who wear heavy clothing in a hot, humid environment… O Heat Stroke: Least common, but most severe heat emergency. Occurs when people ignore the signals of heat exhaustion.

Care for Heat Cramps O Move the person to a cool place O Give cool water to drink O Lightly stretch the muscle and gently massage the area

Care for Heat Exhaustion O Move the person to a cooler environment O Loosen or remove clothing O Fan the person O Get the person into circulating air while applying wet towels O If the person is conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink O If the person’s condition does not improve of if you suspect heat stroke, call 9-1-1

Care for Heat Stroke O Call O Give care until help arrives by following the care steps for heat exhaustion.

Prevention O Avoid being outdoors in the hottest or coldest part of the day O Change your activity level according to the temperature O Take frequent breaks O Dress appropriately for the environment O Drink large amounts of fluids