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Frostbite
If you are experiencing a life threatening emergency please contact Triple Zero (000) immediately
Introduction
Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze after exposure to extreme cold. While more commonly associated with alpine or polar conditions, it can occur in any environment where cold exposure is prolonged. The damage caused by frostbite can be significant and permanent if not recognised. Knowing that frostbite exists as a risk emphasises the need for awareness in cold-weather activities.
Signs and Symptoms
Skin pale, waxy, or grey
Numbness or tingling
Hard or frozen skin
Blisters or blackened skin in severe cases
What you should do?
Follow DRSABCD
Move casualty to a warm environment
Call 000 if severe
Gently rewarm with body heat or warm (not hot) water
Do not rub or massage affected area
Loosely cover with sterile dressing and keep elevated
These fact sheets are provided by Royal Life Saving to support public, workplace, school, and community education. They must be used in their full and current format and are not permitted for commercial purposes unless written approval is obtained. The information is not a substitute for accredited First Aid training, and users are encouraged to complete recognised courses and refresh their skills regularly. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy, Royal Life Saving does not accept responsibility for how the material is applied, and users should always check they are referring to the latest version. Use of this content does not imply endorsement or partnership, and Royal Life Saving may request that use of its materials cease if considered inappropriate or unauthorised.
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