FREEZING temperatures have hit much of the UK, prompting warnings to stay alert to the signs of hypothermia.
St John Ambulance has issued first aid advice to spot two early symptoms of someone being dangerously cold.
The charity says the first sign is shivering, as the body tries to warm itself when the temperature is too low.
The second is slow, shallow breathing, which happens when the body is trying to conserve energy.
St John warned people can suffer serious conditions like frostbite or hypothermia if they don’t know what signs to look for.
A spokesperson said: “While severe-cold related illnesses such as hypothermia and frostbite are rare, these types of illnesses may require urgent medical attention
“Knowing what to look out for and understanding how to help someone quickly is vital in ensuring they receive the best care and the most positive outcome.
“As well as the effect on the body, cold conditions can cause ice and frost which can lead to slips and falls and result in injury.
“While many incidents can be treated at home, it’s important to know when to seek further medical advice.”
Hypothermia is a life-threatening condition that happens when someone’s body temperature drops below 35C.
Symptoms include shivering and pale, cold, dry skin, tiredness, confusion, and irrational behaviour, and a reduced level of response.
Slow and shallow breathing and a slow and weakening pulse could also be signs of the condition.
St John said it is vital someone in hypothermia is given treatment as soon as possible.
If you suspect someone has it, get them out of the cold, call 999, give them a warm drink, food or chocolate.
Frostbite occurs when the body’s tissues start to freeze because of cold temperatures, and usually affects extremities like your fingers or toes.
Signs include pins and needles to begin with, as well as numbness, hardened or stiffened skin, that may then turn blotchy and blue.
On recovery, the skin may be red, hot, painful and blistered.
If someone has frostbite, get them indoors, place the affected area in warm water, dry the area and put on a lightweight dressing, give them paracetamol and take them to hospital with the affected limb raised.
It comes after the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued an amber health alert over half of England because of the cold weather.
Vulnerable people, including those aged 65 plus and Brits with underlying health conditions, are most at risk, officials said.
The Met Office extended an ice warning earlier today, with the mercury expected to plummet to a very chilly -10C.
Parts of the UK could see 5cm of snow today with temperatures expected to drop as low as -10C in some areas.
