Hypothermia Recognition and Treatment: Cold Weather First Aid

What Is Hypothermia?

Core body temperature drops below 35°C (normal 37°C). Can occur in surprisingly mild conditions when wet, tired, or exposed.

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Stages of Hypothermia

Stage	Temp	Symptoms
Mild	32-35°C	Shivering, cold, poor decisions
Moderate	28-32°C	Violent shivering, confusion, sleepy
Severe	<28°C	No shivering, unconscious, weak pulse

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The Umbles

Watch for:

• Stumbles (coordination)
• Mumbles (speech)
• Fumbles (dexterity)
• Grumbles (attitude)

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Treatment

Mild-Moderate

1. Get out of wind/wet
2. Remove wet clothing
3. Insulate from ground
4. Cover head
5. Warm with blankets/sleeping bag
6. Give warm sweet drinks if conscious
7. Skin-to-skin contact if needed

Severe

1. Handle VERY gently (heart is vulnerable)
2. Do NOT give drinks
3. Do NOT rub limbs
4. Call emergency services
5. Maintain horizontal position
6. CPR if no pulse

Keep Reading

• Wilderness First Aid: Handle Medical Emergencies Outdoors
• The Chain of Survival: The 4 Links That Decide Who Lives
• Iodine Tablets and Nuclear Emergencies: What They Do and UK Guidance