Hypothermia Guide

Hypothermia — Cold Exposure

Proper first aid for hypothermia to gently restore body temperature and prevent cardiac complications.

Hypothermia is a Medical Emergency

If a person is shivering uncontrollably, confused, slurring their words, clumsy, or showing extreme drowsiness, call emergency services immediately (911 / 112). Core temperatures below 95°F (35°C) require professional intervention.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Move to a Warm, Dry Shelter

Move the person out of the cold, wind, and rain immediately. Get them to a warm, dry shelter or room. If you cannot go indoors, shield them from the wind and wet weather.

2

Remove Wet Clothing Gently

Gently remove all wet clothing. Avoid moving the person roughly; sudden or harsh movements can trigger dangerous, irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmia).

3

Wrap in Dry Warm Blankets

Wrap the person in dry, warm blankets, sleeping bags, or layers of dry clothing. Be sure to cover their head (excluding their face) to prevent further heat loss.

4

Insulate from the Ground

Place blankets, sleeping pads, or cardboard underneath the person to insulate them from the cold ground or floor, which absorbs body heat rapidly.

5

Apply Warm Compresses

Apply warm, dry compresses or warm water bottles wrapped in towels only to the center of the body (chest, neck, and groin). Never apply compresses to limbs, and never use direct hot water or heating pads directly on their skin.

6

Provide Warm, Non-Alcoholic Drinks

If the person is fully conscious and can swallow normally, offer warm, sweet, non-caffeinated, and non-alcoholic drinks to assist in warming the body. Do not try to feed an unconscious person.

Do's and Don'ts

Do's

  • Handle the person extremely gently
  • Remove wet clothing and replace with dry garments
  • Warm the center of the body first (chest, neck, groin)
  • Monitor breathing and level of consciousness

Don't's

  • Don't apply direct heat (e.g. heating lamps, hot baths)
  • Don't give alcohol or caffeine (they accelerate heat loss)
  • Don't massage or rub the person's hands or feet
  • Don't allow the person to walk or exert themselves

Aftercare & Recovery

Hospital care involves core warming methods, administering warmed intravenous fluids, cardiac monitoring, and assessing for frostbite.
Rewarmed individuals must be monitored for "afterdrop" (a temporary, dangerous drop in core temperature as cold blood returns from the extremities).
Prevent hypothermia in cold weather by wearing windproof and waterproof layers, keeping dry, and staying well hydrated.