By Ryan Duey

The Riley County EMS shared frostbite prevention tips on their social media on Wednesday, January 10th.

They said frostbite is skin and tissue damage that happens in freezing temperatures. In essence, the skin and tissue freeze, causing loss of feeling and color in the affected area. In extremely cold temperatures, like what is expected this weekend, frostbite can happen in as little as 5 to 10 minutes.

EMS indicated prevention tips include; limiting time outdoors, covering exposed skin, dressing in several layers of loose, warm clothing, wearing a hat or headband that fully covers the ears, and wearing mittens rather than gloves.

Signs of frostbite include numbness, white or grayish-yellow skin, and firm or waxy skin.

Actions to take when frostbite has occurred include; going to a warm room, soaking in warm (not hot) water, using your body heat to warm the affected area, do not massage or use a heating pad. Call 911 if you need immediate assistance.