Prevent Frostbite During Farm Work

Farm work includes unique risks during winter.

Reader Contribution by Loretta Sorensen
Updated on January 22, 2022
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by Pexels/Cade S

Staying warm to prevent frostbite during farm work in cold-weather conditions can be accomplished with some simple steps.

Whenever skin is exposed to very cold temperatures, frostbite becomes a genuine risk. Generally, fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks, and chin are at risk of frostbite. And while most often, it’s cold weather putting people at risk for frostbite, skin that comes in direct contact with ice, frozen metal, or very cold liquids (i.e. water) may also succumb to frostbite.

Even though skin is covered by gloves or other clothing, there is still risk of frostbite when temperatures are below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. When temperatures drop below 5 degrees, frostbite risk increase. When wind chill factors are at or below -16 degrees, frostbite can occur in less than 30 minutes.

Signs of Frostbite Setting In

Signs that frostbite may affect skin include skin that is very cold and red. At this stage, if exposure to cold continues, the skin will become numb, hard, and pale. These symptoms indicate that skin and the underlying tissues are freezing. Because skin becomes numb when frostbite occurs, the victim may not realize that frostbite is happening.

As it progresses, severe frostbite affects all skin layers and the underlying tissues. When this level of frostbite takes place, skin turns white or bluish-gray. In addition to numbness, all sensation of cold, pain, or discomfort may be undetectable in the affected area. When muscles and/or joints are involved, they may no longer function.

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