Hypothermia Prevention

Hypothermia is defined as ‘having a core body temperature less than 95 degrees’.  This usually happens as a result of exposure to cold temperatures.  The cold should not be underestimated, most hypothermia happens at 30-50 degrees F.  The body maintains a relatively stable body temperature by balancing heat production with heat loss.  Most heat is lost at the skin surface by convection, conduction, radiation, and evaporation, usually the head, neck, and feet.  The heart and brain are most sensitive to cold.  The electrical activity in these organs slows in response to cold.  Organs begin to fail if the body temperature continues to decrease and eventually death can occur.  Persons greater than or equal to 60 years of age and infants less than 1 year of age have a higher susceptibility to hypothermia and account for more than half of all deaths. 

 

Tips:

- Wear several lighter layers instead of one heavy layer (cotton is least preferable)

- Wear a hat and scarf when outside in cold temperatures or for long periods of time.

- Wear warm, water resistant shoes/boots (nylon is a bad choice)

- Infants, small children, and the elderly should be dressed in one more layer than adults

- Abstain from alcohol use during prolonged cold exposure – it can speed the onset and progression of hypothermia, damage thermoregulation, and lower the body’s resistance to the cold.

- Limit time outside, re-warm frequently, stay dry

- Adequate caloric intake (especially in the elderly)

- Keep the temperature of homes of the elderly at a minimum of 70 degrees F

When driving during very cold or bad weather:

- Make others aware of your destination and path of travel

- Have several blankets, matches, candles, canned or dry food in your car

- If stranded – run the car 10 minutes each hour to warm it up (make sure exhaust pipe is not covered with snow)    

**Keep gas tank above a half of a tank