Frostbite: Symptoms, First Aid Treatment, and Cold Weather Safety

Frostbite occurs when body tissues freeze due to prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures. This condition most commonly affects the fingers, toes, ears, nose, cheeks, and chin. In Canada, frostbite is a serious cold-related injury that can occur during winter work, outdoor recreation, or emergencies involving cold exposure.

The severity of frostbite depends on how long the tissue remains frozen, not just how cold the temperature is.

First Aid Management for Frostbite

The first and most important step when frostbite is suspected is to seek medical help immediately. If possible, ask someone to call emergency services while first aid is being provided.

Immediate First Aid Steps

• Move the individual to a warm, dry shelter to prevent further heat loss
• Remove wet clothing and tight jewelry that may restrict blood flow
• Gently elevate the affected area above heart level to help reduce swelling
• Keep the person warm, dry, and calm
• If the person is immobile, talk to them to keep them alert
• Provide warm, non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids if the person is conscious

⚠️ Do NOT allow walking on frostbitten feet or toes, as this can cause severe tissue damage.

Rewarming Precautions

• Do not rewarm frostbitten tissue if there is any chance it could freeze again — repeated freeze–thaw cycles cause severe damage
• Do not rub the area with snow, hands, or objects
• Do not apply direct heat such as heating pads, fires, or hot water

If medical care is not immediately available and there is no risk of refreezing, gentle rewarming using body heat (such as placing frostbitten fingers under the armpits) may be used.

Transport and Ongoing Care

• Apply a dry, sterile dressing
• Place cotton or gauze between affected fingers or toes
• Transport the individual to the nearest emergency department as soon as possible

Frostbite often occurs alongside hypothermia, which must also be treated urgently.

Important First Aid & Training Note

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical care. Frostbite is a medical emergency that requires prompt assessment by healthcare professionals.

Learning how to recognize and respond to cold-related emergencies is a critical skill in Canada’s climate. St. Mark James Training, Canada’s largest 100% Canadian-owned and operated first aid and CPR training provider, offers first aid training in Canada that includes environmental emergencies such as frostbite and hypothermia.