Disasters · US
Extreme cold
Recognize hypothermia early, warm someone safely, and heat your home without carbon monoxide.
Before
During
- Hypothermia can happen above 40°F if someone is chilled by rain, sweat or cold water. 1
- Watch for shivering, exhaustion, confusion, fumbling hands, slurred speech and drowsiness. In babies: bright red cold skin and very low energy. 1
- Body temperature below 95°F: get medical help immediately. 1
- Never use a grill, camp stove or lantern inside a home, tent or camper. 3
After
- Warm the center of the body first: chest, neck, head and groin. Give warm drinks only if the person is awake, and no alcohol. 1
Warming someone with hypothermia
The CDC’s steps: get medical help as soon as possible, then move the person somewhere warm and remove any wet clothing. Warm the center of the body first (chest, neck, head and groin) using an electric blanket or skin-to-skin contact under loose dry layers. If they’re conscious, warm non-alcoholic drinks help. Once their temperature rises, keep them dry and wrapped up, including the head and neck. 1
If the person is unconscious and seems to have no pulse or breathing, handle them gently, call for emergency help and start CPR. Keep warming them while you wait. 1
Heating safely
Cold snaps cause carbon monoxide poisonings when people bring outdoor equipment inside. Never use a charcoal grill, hibachi, lantern or camping stove indoors, and keep generators at least 20 feet from windows, doors and vents. 3