Children may be ready to brave the chilly air to enjoy the outdoor winter activities but parents need to be aware of the risk of long exposure to cold. The first stage of frostbite is called frostnip. The thing to watch for is redness or soreness to the skin. When people are exposed to cold weather, their blood vessels constrict, diverting blood away from the skin to maintain their core body temperature. Parents should keep a close eye on all extremities that are farthest from the heart and areas not covered with warm clothing. Frostnip can be treated at home by bringing kids indoors, changing into warm clothes, and warming the skin with either a warm towel, warm blanket, or run it under warm (but not hot) water. Avoid direct heat and refrain from rubbing the skin. Signs of frostbite include if the red skin becomes white or grayish-yellow or if blisters or sores begin to form. Should signs of frostbite appear, experts recommend seeking medical attention immediately as it can cause permanent tissue damage.
