Tenderfoot 12b - Frostbite and Sunburn

Being a scout, you will need to brave the elements while camping or hiking.  Your skin, if exposed to the elements, may be in danger of getting frostbite or sunburned.   And yes, you are able to get sunburned in the winter.  The best thing to do is make sure that your skin is protected.

For sunburns make sure to apply sunscreen to all exposed skin.  You could also wear a hat, long sleeve shirts and pants will greatly lower the chances of getting a sunburn.

To protect yourself from frostbite, dress warm.  Wearing gloves, stocking caps, and scarves will helped against the cold.  If your feet are the problem, double up on the wool socks.

The following is what you should do if you have been sunburned or have frostbite.

Frostbite:

• Seek Medical Care Promptly
• See a doctor or go to a hospital emergency room
• Restore Warmth
• Get to a warm place
• Unless absolutely necessary, do not walk on frostbitten toes or feet
• Gently warm the area with warm water  Using too warm water will actually be very painful on the affected area.
• If no warm water is available, breath on the area through cupped hands and hold close to your body
• Do not use direct heat from heating pads or from the fire
• Do not rub your hands together to make warm... your skin will actually rub off!
• Bandage The Area
• Apply dry, sterile dressings and do not break any blisters

Sunburn:

• Take a cool bath or shower
• You can also apply a clean towel dampened with cool water
• Leave Blisters intact
• Popping them will increase your chance of infection
• Drink plenty of Water
• Fight the burn from the inside out.  Your skin is damaged and dry. Keeping hydrated will help your body heal itself with your sunburn.
• Keep the affected are out of the sun
• If needed, take a couple of Tylenol to help with the pain and headache associated with the sunburn.
• Do not use any cream that contains oil! Doing so will only trap in the heat from your sunburn and cause it to become worse.

Remember, the best practice is to be prepared and prevent any frostbite and sunburn issues before they even start.  Dress smart and appropriate for the weather condition as you are hiking or camping.