Frostbite Awareness: Staying Safe in Cold Weather

As temperatures drop, many of us continue to work outdoors or in cold environments, increasing the risk of cold-related injuries like frostbite. Just as heatstroke is a serious concern in the summer, frostbite is a dangerous hazard in the winter. Recognizing the signs early and taking preventive steps can make the difference between minor discomfort and serious injury.

Frostbite happens when skin and the tissue underneath it freeze due to exposure to extreme cold. It most often affects the fingers, toes, ears, cheeks, and nose—the body parts farthest from your core heat. Cold temperatures, wind chill, and prolonged exposure all increase the risk. One of the most dangerous aspects of frostbite is that you might not realize it’s happening. The affected area can feel numb, so the damage often goes unnoticed until someone else points it out, or it becomes visibly severe.

How to Recognize Frostbite Symptoms

Knowing what frostbite looks and feels like is critical to preventing serious injury.

Watch for these symptoms:

• Skin turns red (flushed), then white, grayish-yellow, or bluish-purple
• Pain or tingling that fades as numbness sets in
• The affected area feels cold, stiff, or waxy
• Blisters may form in severe cases

If you notice any of these signs, act quickly. Ignoring frostbite can lead to permanent tissue damage, and in severe cases, amputation may be necessary.

Frostbite Prevention: How to

The best way to avoid frostbite is through preparation and awareness. Here are practical steps to keep yourself and others safe:

Dress appropriately for the weather:

• Wear layers to trap body heat and protect against wind and moisture
• Protect your extremities:
  • Wear insulated gloves or mittens
  • Cover your head and ears with a warm hat or hood
  • Use a face mask or scarf to shield your cheeks and nose
  • Choose warm, waterproof boots and thick socks

Keep moving to maintain body heat:

• Avoid standing still for too long in the cold. Staying active keeps blood flowing and helps you stay warm.

Carry spare clothing items:

• Bring extra gloves, socks, and liners in case what you’re wearing gets wet
• Wet clothing leads to rapid heat loss, increasing the risk of frostbite

Be mindful of wind chill:

• Even if temperatures don’t seem extreme, wind chill can make conditions much colder and more dangerous

Check yourself and your coworkers:

• Make sure you can still move your fingers and toes and feel your face
• If someone seems quiet or unusually still, check in with them—they could be experiencing cold stress

What to Do if Frostbite Occurs

If you or someone else shows signs of frostbite, take action immediately to prevent further damage.

Steps to take:

1. Get out of the cold as quickly as possible
2. Warm the affected area gradually:
   • Place the affected part against warm skin, such as in your armpit
   • Use warm—not hot—water to warm the skin
3. Avoid rubbing or massaging the affected area
   • This can cause more damage to frozen tissue
4. Never use direct heat like a heating pad or hot water
   • Numb skin is prone to burns without the person realizing it

If the skin remains numb or turns gray or waxy, seek medical attention immediately.

The Importance of Working with a Buddy

One of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of frostbite is to work with a buddy.

• You may not notice frostbite symptoms on yourself, but someone else might
• Check in with each other regularly, especially during long shifts or extreme weather

Final Thought

Frostbite is a preventable injury. With proper preparation and awareness, you can stay safe and warm this winter. Your safety starts with recognizing the risks before they become a serious problem. Stay alert, stay prepared, and look out for each other.

Optional Discussion Questions

1. What are some tasks we do on the job that could increase our exposure to frostbite risks?
   Follow-up: How can we adjust our work habits or routines to reduce that risk?
2. Why is it important to recognize frostbite symptoms in a coworker rather than just in ourselves?
   Follow-up: What are some ways we can check in on each other during cold-weather work?
3. We talk a lot about dressing for the weather—what are some real-world examples of proper layering that you’ve found to work well?
   Follow-up: What mistakes have you seen people make when it comes to dressing for the cold?
4. Imagine you’re working outside and you notice numbness in your fingers or toes. What should you do immediately to prevent frostbite from getting worse?
   Follow-up: What would you do differently if it was a coworker showing symptoms?
5. How can we apply the buddy system effectively to keep each other safe from cold-related hazards?
   Follow-up: In what ways can we make it a habit to check in on one another during the colder months?