APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — In the wake of a teen’s death in Brown County, and possibly another in Sturgeon Bay, safety experts are giving insight on how to avoid frostbite and hypothermia during extremely cold weather.
Authorities say a 17-year-old’s body was found Tuesday morning in the Town of Wrightstown. It’s believed she died of hypothermia.
A body of a man was also found alongside a road in Sturgeon Bay the same day. But the cause of death is currently unknown.
During the winter of 2021 and 2022, there were 91 cold related deaths and over 2,200 cold-related emergency department visits throughout the state, according to Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
“They typically range somewhere from the 40 to 60 or 70 range,” said Chief Medical Officer Dr. Jonathan Meiman. “Last year, we did have an unusually high number of cold related deaths. We’re continuing to track that this year.”
Andrew Beckett, with ReadyWisconsin, says frostbite and hypothermia come with many risk factors.
“These can cause extreme illness, possible permanent damage to skin,” said Beckett. “It’s very important you watch for signs.”
Signs of frostbite include redness or pain, white or grayish-yellow skin, and numbness.
Hypothermia is more serious than frost bite. Symptoms include confusion, slurred speech, shivering and exhaustion.
“You can actually become hypothermic in as high as 65-degree weather, if there’s a wind-chill and a moisture factor in there,” said Alex Quintana, public education specialist with the Appleton Fire Department.
She says it’s a good idea to always be prepared.
“I’m sure you’ve always heard your parents tell you to always keep extra clothes in the car in case you end up in the ditch,” said Quintana.
Especially when on the road.
“A jacket, some warm pants, a hat, scarf, some gloves, as well as blankets,” said Quintana. “Flashlights are always a good idea so you can see what you’re doing. Keep a phone charger in your car so you can contact somebody if you need some help.”
Quintana adds if you encounter frostbite, there’s one thing you should not do, which is move.
“You’re going to look at causing harm to the patient if you rub it or shake them to try to dry them off or warm them up,” said Quintana. “It can actually cause them to go into cardiac arrest and they’ll have a heart attack.”
Beckett says the bottom line is making sure you’re ready for what’s ahead.
“It’s important to keep on top of what the weather is going to be, especially if there’s going to be any possibility that you’re going to be spending time outdoors and making sure you’re dressing appropriately and are prepared for that weather,” said Beckett.
The Appleton Fire Department says if you do get stuck during a cold night and need help getting out, cat litter is a great way to help get those tires unstuck.
It’s also important to note that if your body temperature ever drops below 95 degrees, you should seek medical attention immediately.
