Winter Cold, Alaska State Parks Winter Cold Protect yourself and your family or friends from the cold this winter. Cold temperatures can injure exposed skin, damage extremities, or lower the temperature of the body core, leading to death. Frostbite occurs when flesh is frozen.
Frozen skin looks white, feels hard and cold, and no longer has any pain sensation.
Frostbite victims need to receive medical attention as quickly as possible. Frostnip is less severe, and only involves freezing of the skin's surface. White patches will show on the skin, usually on cheeks or ears, but the skin will remain soft and still has pain sensation. Usually, placing a warm hand over the affected area will thaw it and restore circulation. Children are especially susceptible and should be watched closely when outdoors in cold temperatures.