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FROSTBITE
By:

• Take the victim indoors if possible
  
  
• Remove any wet clothing he/she may have on
  
  
• Immerse the frostbitten parts in warm (not hot) water until they regain their pink color. If warm water is not available, wrap the affected parts gently in a sheet and warm blankets and keep the parts elevated.
  
  
• Do not rub or massage the frostbitten area. This could cause gangrene (decay of body tissue when the oxygen supply is obstructed) to set in.
  
  
• Do not try to warm the victim with a heat lamp or hot water bottle or place him near a hot stove. This could also cause gangrene.
  
  
• Do not break any blisters the victim may have because the blisters may become infected.
  
  
• If the victim is conscious and is not vomiting, give him warm liquids to drink to help the warming process. After the frostbitten parts are warmed, have the victim exercise them to maintain good circulation in those areas. If the victim's toes or feet are frostbitten, do not let them walk until they are warm. Walking could cause gangrene just as rubbing can.
  
  
• A doctor should be seen as soon as possible to make sure the parts heal properly.