Hypothermia First Aid: Step-by-Step Emergency Response

Hypothermia (core temp <35°C/95°F) is a medical emergency. Immediate actions:

1. Call 911 for moderate/severe cases.
2. Move to warmth: Shelter, vehicle, heated room.
3. Remove wet clothing gently; replace with dry layers.
4. Insulate: Blankets, sleeping bag; cover head/neck.
5. Apply heat to core areas: Neck, axillae, groin (large vessels) via warm packs/compresses.
6. Warm fluids if conscious/swallowing (no alcohol/caffeine).
7. Handle gently: Rough movement triggers arrhythmias.
8. Monitor vitals if trained.
9. Do NOT rub extremities, use direct high heat, give alcohol.
10. Elevate legs slightly to aid venous return.
11. Stay with person until EMS arrives.
12. Hospital evaluation mandatory even if rewarmed—afterdrop, arrhythmias, coagulopathy risk.