When the weather forecaster refers to wind chill, it is the effect of wind speed on heat loss. For example, a 10 degree Fahrenheit reading is equivalent to minus 29 degrees Fahrenheit when the wind speed is 25 miles per hour. Whenever possible, move with the wind, not against it. Recognize and repair frostbite. The risk of frostbite, skin damage from freezing, increases as the temperature or wind chill drops.
Frostbite first appears as a patch of pale or white skin caused by constricted blood vessels.
After mild frostbite, the warmed skin appears red and swollen. After severe frostbite, the warmed skin may appear purple or black. Do not massage the affected area since that could cause blood vessels to rupture. Symptoms of hypothermia include progressive muscular fatigue, shivering, lost body heat, loss of judgment and reasoning, slurred speech, loss of hand control, difficulty walking and a desire to lie down and rest. Hypothermia causes your core temperature to drop.