Posted by Keri Hartwright
Last updated 12th December 2022
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Following on from the sad deaths of children in Solihull this week and with the temperature dropping as quickly as it has I thought I would share some signs of hypothermia and what to do if you notice it.
The age groups who are at most at risk of hypothermia are young children and older people. Â It is caused when the body temperature drops too low. Â This can happen because the person has been exposed to the cold for too long by going outside in low temperatures or not wearing enough clothes. Â If the person gets wet they are at an even greater risk of developing hypothermia.
Below are some of the common signs of hypothermia, which change the lower the temperature drops.
If you suspect someone is suffering hypothermia get them into a warm, dry place as soon as possible. Â Remove any clothing which may have become wet and replace with dry clothing. Â Wrap them up in something warm, covering their head if possible. Â If you are outside and can get hold of foil blanket they are good at trapping warmth. Â Give them something warm to drink to warm them up gradually.
Avoid warming them up too fast, putting them straight into a hot bath is not a good idea, wait a while until they are a bit warmer.  Don’t give them alcohol to warm them up either.
Children love to play out in the snow, sledging and having snow ball fights, just keep them wrapped up warm and be mindful of the time you are out in the snow. Â Follow it all up with a nice cup of hot chocolate or milk.
To find out more about first aid and how to administer it please get in touch today.
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