FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Jamey Durham, (334) 206-5300

The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) urges the public to recognize the signs and symptoms of hypothermia and frostbite and to take extra precautions during periods of extreme cold. In addition, special precautions are needed when using generators.

Hypothermia is a medical emergency that can be fatal. Hypothermia occurs when the body's core temperature falls below 95 degrees F, just a few degrees less than the normal body temperature. When exposed to cold, the body begins to lose heat faster than it produces it. In very low temperatures, hypothermia can occur in minutes.

The ADPH Center for Health Statistics reports there were 11 hypothermia-related deaths in Alabama in 2024, 13 in 2023, and 18 in 2022.

Frostbite is most common on exposed skin, such as the cheeks, nose, and ears, but it can also affect the hands and feet. Early warning signs include numbness, loss of feeling, or a stinging sensation. If you suspect frostbite, get the person out of the cold immediately and slowly warm the affected area; do not rub it, as this can damage the skin. If numbness persists, seek emergency care.

Signs and symptoms of hypothermia are as follows:

Adults:

• Shivering
• Exhaustion or feeling very tired
• Confusion
• Fumbling hands
• Memory loss
• Slurred speech
• Drowsiness

Babies:

• Bright red, cold skin
• Very low energy

Any of the following signs may point to frostbite:

• A white or grayish-yellow skin area
• Skin that feels unusually firm or waxy
• Numbness

If unable to get help right away, try to warm the person up.

• Get the person into a warm room or shelter.
• Remove any wet clothing the person is wearing.
• Warm the center of the person's body-chest, neck, head, and groin-using an electric blanket, if available. You can also use skin-to-skin contact under loose, dry layers of blankets, clothing, towels, or sheets.
• Warm drinks can help increase body temperature, but do not give alcoholic drinks. Do not try to give beverages to an unconscious person.
• After body temperature has increased, keep the person dry and wrap them in a warm blanket, including the head and neck.
• Get the person proper medical attention as soon as possible.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, victims of hypothermia are often:

• Older adults with inadequate food, clothing or heating.
• Babies sleeping in cold bedrooms.
• People who remain outdoors for long periods-people experiencing homelessness, hikers, hunters and others.
• People who drink alcohol or use illicit drugs.

Guidance and graphics about preventing hypothermia and frostbite precautions are available from the CDC.

Generator safety:

Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that kills. To prevent carbon monoxide poisoning from generators, be sure to follow manufacturer's instructions.

• Always use generators outdoors and at least 20 feet from windows, doors and attached garages.
• Always connect the generator to appliances with heavy-duty extension cords.
• Keep the generator dry and protected from rain or flooding. Touching a wet generator or device connected to one can cause electrical shock.

-30-

1/22/26

County health departments throughout Alabama provide a wide range of confidential and professional services. Contact your local county health department for additional information.

Mission: To promote, protect, and improve Alabama's health

Vision: Healthy People. Healthy Communities. Healthy Alabama.