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Hypothermia: Just The Facts
Hypothermia: an abnormally low body-core temperature.
- Wear protective clothing: hat and scarf/neck gaiter.
- Insulate yourself from the ground.
- Wear wind-proof clothing (in emergency, use a garbage bag or a pack); seek shelter
- Wear vapor barrier lining under clothes. Breathe through scarf/face mask.
Recognition: Signs of Mild Hypothermia
- Feels cold and shivers at maximum level
- Normal consciousness level, alert, normal or slightly impaired coordination
- Slurred speech, memory loss, poor judgment, carelessness
Treatment: Mild Hypothermia
- Move person to sheltered environment
- Replace wet clothing with dry, insulated garments
- Give warm food and lots of sugary hot fluids
- Wrap person in sleeping bag, plastic bag, or tarp. Huddle with person in sleeping bag.
- Don't use heat packs/hot water bottles. Boil water so person can inhale steam; build a fire
Recognition: Signs of Profound Hypothermia