What to do if someone is hypothermic (very cold)?

If someone is hypothermic (very cold), you should act quickly but carefully, as hypothermia can be life-threatening. Here’s what to do:

1. Recognize hypothermia

• Shivering (may stop as condition worsens)

• Slurred speech or mumbling

• Slow, shallow breathing

• Clumsiness, lack of coordination

• Confusion, drowsiness, memory loss

• Weak pulse

2. Call emergency services immediately

• Hypothermia is a medical emergency. Call for help if the person is very cold, drowsy, confused, or unconscious.

3. Move to safety and warmth

• Get the person indoors or to a sheltered, warmer place.

• Remove wet clothing carefully and replace with dry layers if possible.

4. Warm the body gradually

• Use blankets, sleeping bags, or coats. Cover the head, but leave the face visible.

• Use your own body heat (skin-to-skin contact under dry blankets if appropriate and safe).

• Place warm, dry compresses (not hot) on the chest, neck, armpits, and groin. Avoid direct heat like heating pads or hot water, as these can cause dangerous heart rhythms.

5. Offer warm drinks if they are awake and alert

• Give warm, sweet, non-alcoholic, caffeine-free beverages. Do not give alcohol.

• Do not give anything if the person is drowsy, confused, or unconscious.

6. Handle gently

• Avoid rough handling. Sudden movements can trigger irregular heart rhythms.

• If the person is unconscious and not breathing normally, start CPR and continue until medical help arrives.

7. Do not rewarm too quickly

• Avoid hot baths, direct fires, or hot water bottles directly on skin. These can cause shock or burns.