Or more correctly, hypothermia, is the lowering of the body s core temperature. Prevention is the best course of action. Use appropriate equipment. Do not allow oneself or ones clothing to become wet either from rain or perspiration. When at rest, keep out of the wind.
Treatment is simple and needs to be carried out as quickly as possible.
If a hut or natural shelter is not close by, a tent, bivi bag or similar protection should be arranged to keep the victim dry. Once the victim is conscious, hot drinks will go a long way to boost morale. Frostbite, though unlikely to kill, can result in later loss, through amputation, of the body s extremities such as fingers and toes. Warning signs are severe pain in the affected area followed by a complete loss of feeling there. Colour of the affected area will be almost white.