Hypothermia

Hypothermia occurs when the core body temperature drops below 35°C. It’s brought on by an over exposure to cold temperatures and is a medical emergency that can turn life threatening very quickly. Moderate hypothermia can usually be reversed. 

Here are some factors that can make a casualty more at risk-

• Children under 4 years as their brains are not fully developed
• Wearing wet clothes or being immersed in cold water
• A child not wearing suitable clothing in the wind
• Staying out in the cold too long
• Living in a cold house, particularly older people

Recognition

• Shivering first, then becomes more violent before ceasing as muscles stiffen up as they cool 
• Pale, cold skin
• Blue lips
• Body functions slowing down such as speech, actions and breathing
• Confusion
• Tiredness
• Breathing difficulties
• Disorientated – can be mistaken for drunkenness 
• Unconsciousness 
• Babies can be floppy, refuse to feed and their skin maybe cold to touch and red. 

Treatment

• Move child indoors or somewhere sheltered as quickly as possible
• Carefully remove any wet clothing and dry them
• Wrap them in blankets, coats or towels and make sure their head is covered
• Give them a warm drink 
• If conditions seem severe call 999/112 for emergency help
• Monitor them closely
• If they become unconscious maintain airway and breathing. If they are breathing place them into the recovery position and insulate them with blankets and coats
• If they stop breathing start CPR 

Activity

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