Hi, I’m Mike Brown, your university physician. With Michigan winter in full swing, frostbite is a real risk when temperatures drop, especially if wind chills are extreme. Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze, often affecting fingers, toes, ears and your nose first. For those that have lived through northern climate winters, protective measures are second nature, but for those not accustomed to frigid conditions, here are some basic suggestions to protect yourself.

Dress in layers, starting with moisture-wicking materials to keep sweat off your skin. Add insulating layers and finish with a waterproof outer layer. Cover exposed skin with a hat, scarf, mittens (better than gloves) and warm socks. Protect your face and ears with a balaclava or mask if it’s especially cold.

Limit time outdoors in extreme cold and keep moving to maintain blood flow. Stay dry, as wet clothing increases heat loss, and avoid tight clothing that restricts circulation. Watch for early signs of frostbite like numbness, tingling or white patches on the skin — these mean it’s time to get inside and warm up.

Frostbite is preventable with preparation, so bundle for this cold snap!