The prime dangers of cold-weather conditions are frostbite and hypothermia, as the cold strikes at the outer and inner body. Your extremities - hands, feet, ears and noses - are particularly susceptible to frostbite, but any exposed skin is at risk, and the risk is multiplied by wind speed.The wind-chill factor transforms modestly-cold temperatures into deadly, tissue destroying assaults on the body. An 18 mph wind in 9.5 degree temperature results in a -23.3 degree wind-chill temperature. At wind-chill temperatures below -6 degrees, exposed flesh freezes in 60 seconds or less.
Removing a mitten long enough to undo clothing and urinate can result in frostbitten fingers. Deep frostbite, which can result in lost fingers, toes or even limbs, kills by incapacitating the victim.
The first signs of frostbite may be a waxy whiteness on the skin. Keep a close eye on your mates for these patches. If you are on your own, periodically feel your face and ears for the typical numbness.
If you encounter frostbite, rub snow onto the area until the whiteness or numbness disappears. Alternatively gently compress the area with a warm hand. Do not rub the frostbitten area directly; you are likely to break the skin, leading to an open wound infection.
