BISMARCK, N.D. (KFYR) – You may be excited about warmer holiday forecasts, but doctors say don’t forget your mittens.

Real North Dakotans may feel like they can beat the cold and the subsequent effects of frostbite. But the Mayo Clinic reports that frostbite can occur in temperatures as hot as 32 degrees. This figure can be even higher in the event of significant wind chills.

Essentia Health emergency physician Christopher Anderson said frostbite occurs when skin tissue freezes, which can lead to its destruction. He said frostbite, which causes vasoconstriction in tissues, can occur in less severe cases.

He added that if your skin is not warmed quickly, it can lead to further injuries, infections or amputations.

“I have seen cases where cars were stuck and passengers suffered from frostbite due to a winter storm. So it is very important to pay attention to these weather conditions. You have to be prepared for those conditions,” Anderson said.

To remedy your frostbite, Anderson advises putting your skin in warm water and avoiding rubbing skin that is already frostbitten as this can be more harmful. He said medications that increase dehydration as well as drug and alcohol use can increase the risk of developing frostbite.

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