Crime & Safety

Frostbite Risk High Amid Bitterly Cold Wind Chills

Wind chills can lead to dangerously cold conditions.

Frigid temperatures combined with strong winds will create dangerous wind chill readings Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service.

With temperatures plunging to the single digits and wind chill values estimated at as low as -17 degrees, the NWS warns that prolonged exposure to cold and wind can lead to frostbite and hypothermia. 

First responders recommend the following, should you suspect frostbite:

  • Call 911
  • Get the person to a warm place and remove any wet clothing.
  • Unless absolutely necessary, the person should not walk on frostbitten toes or feet.
  • Do not rewarm the skin until you can keep it warm. Warming and then re-exposing the frostbitten area to cold air can cause worse damage.
  • Gently warm the area in warm water (not hot) or with wet heat until the skin appears red and warm.
  • If no water is nearby, breathe on the area through cupped hands and hold it next to your body.
  • Do not use direct heat from heating pads, radiator, or fires.
  • Do not rub or massage the skin or break blisters.
  • Bandage the Area
  • Loosely apply dry, sterile dressings.
  • Put gauze or clean cotton balls between fingers or toes to keep them separated.


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