With dangerously cold temperatures continuing to grip Mississippi – although there should be a couple of above-freezing days before another cold front hits this weekend – the state Department of Health is urging residents to take extra precautions to prevent hypothermia and frostbite.
“The Mississippi State Department of Health is urging residents to take precautions to prevent hypothermia and frostbite during the extreme cold conditions facing the state this week,” a news release said. “Recognizing the signs and symptoms and knowing how to treat the conditions are key to saving a limb and in the worst-case scenario, a life.”
Common hypothermia symptoms for adults to look out for include uncontrollable shivering, extreme fatigue, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech, and drowsiness. Common symptoms for infants may include bright red and cold skin plus low energy levels.
Common frostbite symptoms include redness or pain of affected skin, skin with white or grayish-yellow hue, skin that feels firm or waxy, and numbness or loss of feeling.
If you suspect yourself or someone you know may be suffering from a cold-related medical emergency, there’s no time to waste, the MSDH said. 911 should be called immediately, but if emergency help is not available or has a wait time due to icy roads, there are actions that can be taken in the meantime.
For hypothermia, a person suffering should move to a warm area. If clothing is wet, remove it immediately. Warm the center of the body using blankets or skin-to-skin contact. Drinking something warm can help if the person is still conscious, and making sure the person is dry and wrapped in warm materials until medical care is available is vital.
Victims of hypothermia are most often older adults with inadequate food, clothing, or heating; babies sleeping in cold bedrooms; people who stay outdoors for long periods of time; and people who drink alcohol in excess or use illicit drugs.
For frostbite, a person suffering should move to a warm area. Do not walk on frostbitten feet or toes. Never rub the affected area, and use warm water or skin-to-skin contact to warm the affected area. Avoid direct heat sources such as heating pads, fireplaces, or radiators, as conditions can worsen.
The MSDH has additional winter-weather preparedness tips and guidance for cold-related medical emergencies available on its website.
