Tips to avoid frostbite and hypothermia as subzero temps hit Lincoln
LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — As we head into the weekend, temperatures are expected to drop below zero in Lincoln.
Officials at CHI Health St. Elizabeth said that’s a concern because the potential for frostbite and hypothermia increases.
The main tip for those going outside is to dress in layers.
“That includes covering up all those things that are exposed: your nose, your fingers, your toes, your face,” said Eric Jensen, community educator for the hospital’s burn unit.
He said any exposed skin could get frostbite in 15 to 30 minutes. But depending on the temperature, some cases might be even more extreme.
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Jensen suggested limiting your time outside when the temperature drops below zero.
“If you have other medical problems — diabetes, vascular insufficiencies, and those types of things — reduce the time that you have to be out there,” Jensen said.
SEE ALSO: Lincoln declares snow emergency, parking ban before second winter storm this week
If you do end up getting frostbite or hypothermia, you should start by warming yourself — slowly.
Jensen said if you do so too quickly, you can actually get burned and make it worse.
And if you do still need help, he said you should seek medical care.
