Hypothermia: how to recognize it and react without panicking
We live in a country (Canada) where the cold is part of the scenery for a good part of the year. Outdoor activities, outdoor work, car breakdowns in winter, sports, hiking… hypothermia doesn't only happen in the mountains, it can occur in very “normal” situations.
The problem is that we often spot it too late. We tell ourselves "I'm just cold, it will pass", when the body is already starting to lose control of its temperature.
What is hypothermia, simply put?
Basically, hypothermia occurs when the body temperature drops below approximately 35°C.
From this point on, the body has increasing difficulty functioning normally: muscles respond less well, the brain slows down, the heart can become unstable.
This can happen in several situations: clothing not warm enough, wet clothing, cold wind, falling into cold water, long exposure outside, a tired or weakened person, etc.
Signs of hypothermia to watch for
At first, it just seems like “I’m really cold.” Then the signs multiply. Here are some important signs to watch for, in yourself or someone else:
Significant chills
The body begins to tremble to produce heat. When someone shivers without being able to warm up, it is no longer a simple discomfort.
Cold, pale, or slightly bluish skin
The body cuts off circulation to the skin, hands, feet, and nose to keep the heat in the center.
Fatigue, discomfort, difficulty concentrating
The person becomes slow, less alert, has difficulty following a conversation, and making logical decisions.
Clumsy gestures
She has difficulty buttoning a coat, holding an object, and walking normally.
Slurred or bizarre speech
She starts talking as if she is exhausted or a little drunk.
In more advanced cases, the chills may disappear, the person becomes very drowsy, and then may lose consciousness. This is considered a life-threatening emergency.
Emergency training: discover our first aid courses.
What to do if you suspect hypothermia
As soon as you have any doubt, we take action. It's better to intervene early than too late.
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To take the person to safety
If possible, we go inside. Otherwise, we look for a place that is as sheltered from the wind and humidity as possible. -
Remove what is wet
We remove wet clothes and replace them with dry clothes, blankets, a coat, a sleeping bag… anything that helps to keep the heat in. -
Warm gently
The torso (chest, stomach, back) should be covered. Blankets, thermal blankets, and dry towels can be used.
If the person is fully awake and can swallow without difficulty, a hot non-alcoholic drink can be offered. -
Monitor breathing and level of consciousness
If the person becomes very confused, no longer responds normally, breathes slowly or seems to want to “sleep” despite the cold, it is considered serious. -
Call emergency services
In case of serious doubt, discomfort, loss of consciousness, or worrying signs, call emergency medical services. Do your best while waiting for them to arrive, but you are not alone.
Do you work in cold conditions? Contact SuperMedic to equip your team.
How to avoid getting to this point
We cannot control the weather, but we can prepare for it.
Dressing well in layers, keeping the head, hands and feet well protected, avoiding staying in wet clothes for long periods, and carrying a small emergency kit in the car or when going out are simple actions that already greatly reduce the risk.
Some people are more vulnerable: the elderly, children, people who are tired, people under the influence of alcohol or certain medications. With them, extra care is needed.
Why does first aid training make a real difference?
Hypothermia is one of those situations where you can quickly feel overwhelmed if you have never been trained.
The good news is that with basic training, you learn to:
- to recognize emergency signs more quickly
-react without panicking
-protect the person while waiting for help
At SuperMedic, we equip people and organizations with first aid equipment as well as training adapted to everyday realities: work, family, outdoor activities, travel, etc.