Symptoms: Skin is waxy,
white/gray and numb while frozen. Upon thawing, the signs vary with the
degree of injury as follows:
Mild - Moderate: Redness,
swelling, clear blisters, pain.
Severe: Blue-black
discoloration, blood-filled blisters, early absence of pain.
Non-Freezing ("Trench Foot,"
"Immersion Foot")
Cause: PROLONGED EXPOSURE TO
COLD (USUALLY 32 DEGREES TO -50 DEGREES) AND WETNESS.
Symptoms: Redness, swelling,
blistering, bleeding, numbness.
Prevention
C
- Cleanliness and Care - Feet, socks, and clothing are warmer when clean.
Proper care of the feet is imperative.
O
- Overheating - Wearing too much clothing causes overheating, perspiration,
dampness, and coldness.
L
- Layers and Looseness - Clothing in loose layers assures air spaces which
hold body heat. Adjust the number of layers to the temperature and
activity. Loose-fitting clothing insures circulation and insulation.
D
- Dampness - A wet garment is a cold garment. Wear the field jacket as a
windbreaker and to repel water.
First Aid and Treatment
Get off your feet, change to
warm, dry clothing, and seek medical assistance. DO
NOT RUB, AND DO NOT USE SNOW!
