How To

    Tips for Avoiding Frostbite

    Because many winter sports take place outdoors in frigid temperatures, frostbite can be a serious health concern. This is especially true for people who spend time on windy mountains, such as skiers, snowboarders, mountain climbers, etc. Frostbite is the result of prolonged exposure to cold temperatures and results in the freezing of the skin or other tissue.

    When skin is frozen, it can be severely harmed. In some cases, frostbite damage can result in people losing fingers, toes, or other parts of their body. Frostbite is a major concern for people who climb Mt. Everest, or other snowy peaks. Here are some tips for avoiding this condition.

    Wear mittens instead of gloves

    Generally speaking, mittens are warmer than gloves when all other things such as fabric type, thickness, insulation, etc, are equal. This is because mittens keep your fingers together, which results in less evaporative heat loss. So, mittens can help you to prevent getting frostbite. in extreme situations, whether you are wearing mittens or gloves may determine if you get frostbite or not.

    Make sure that you fully cover your ears and face when you are in cold temperatures

    Most people remember to wear gloves, snow pants, and coats, however, many forget to bring a scar or a face warmer to cover their faces when they are doing winter sports. Also, some people do not fully cover their ears. Both the face and the ears can get frostbite, so don’t forget to keep these areas covered too when you are exposed to very cold weather.

    Be wary of conducting winter sporting activity at night

    Nighttime temperatures are often far colder than day time ones are. So, if you plan on doing winter sports during the night, such as night skiing, then you need to dress even warmer. Wear more layers, use hand warmers, foot warmers, and don’t stay out for too late. Overdoing it is how people get frostbite. Don’t let that be you.

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