01/20/2026
🥶 Reduce your risk of frostbite by dressing in loose, dry layers to stay warm outdoors, covering your skin as much as possible. If your clothing or boots are too tight it can restrict blood flow, which can increase the risk of frostbite.
Always wear dry gloves or mittens as frostbite can happen within minutes of direct exposure to very cold conditions with a high wind-chill factor. Fingers, toes, ears and cheeks are prime targets. 🖐️🦶👂
Mild frostbite affects the outer skin layers and appears as a blanching or whitening of the skin. In severe cases, skin will appear waxy with a white, greyish-yellow or greyish-blue colour. The affected parts will have numbness and might have blisters. Other symptoms can include swelling, itching and burning. Seek medical attention right away if you think you have frostbite.
Did you know that frostbite is considered a type of burn? That means individuals with serious frostbite will be sent to our Burn Unit at Hamilton General Hospital.
