Treatment

To help someone with hypothermia, take these steps immediately:

1. Gently move the person out of the cold. If going indoors isn't possible, protect the person from the wind, especially around the neck and head. Insulate the individual from the cold ground, such as by laying a blanket underneath the person.
2. Gently remove wet clothing. Replace wet things with warm, dry coats or blankets.
3. If further warming is needed, do so gradually and focus on the center of the body. For example, apply warm, dry compresses to the neck, chest and groin. The CDC says that another option is using an electric blanket, if available. If a hot water bottle or chemical hot pack is used, first wrap it in a towel before applying.
4. Offer the person warm, sweet, nonalcoholic drinks.
5. Begin CPR if the person shows no signs of life, such as breathing, coughing or movement.