Symptoms of this condition include:

• Change in mental status (stumbles, bumbles, grumbles and mumbles are signs that cold is affecting the body and brain)
• Uncontrollable shivering
• Cool abdomen and a low core body temperature
• Severe hypothermia may produce rigid muscles, dark and puffy skin, irregular heart and respiratory rates, and unconsciousness

• Wear multi-layered clothing
  1. Inner layer that wicks sweat away from skin such as lightweight wool, polyester, or polypropylene (polypro). Never use cotton as it absorbs moisture.
  2. Middle layer that insulates and keeps in heat -examples include polyester fleece, wool, microfiber insulation, or down.
  3. Outer layer should repel wind, snow and rain. Choose a fabric that is breathable and rain and wind proof.
• Wear gloves or mittens and warm waterproof shoes or boots. Avoid overly constricting wrist bands, socks or shoes.
• Wear warm headgear, scarf or neck warmer and face mask
• Eat a well-balanced diet
• Drink warm, non-alcoholic, caffeine-free liquids to maintain fluid levels
• Avoid becoming wet, as wet clothing loses 90 percent of its insulating value