Below-zero forecast in some locations Tuesday night; CDC warns of hypothermia

FRANKFORT (KT) – After a brief respite from severe winter weather following two winter storms, the National Weather Service says Kentucky can expect bitter cold temperatures Tuesday night, even going below zero in some locations, so people should become aware of the warning signs of hypothermia and how to prevent it.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says hypothermia can happen when a person is exposed to very cold temperatures for a long period of time. When exposed to cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster than it's produced. Lengthy exposures will eventually use up your body's stored energy, which leads to lower body temperature.

A body temperature that is too low affects the brain, making the victim unable to think clearly or move well. This makes hypothermia especially dangerous, because a person may not know that it's happening and won't be able to do anything about it. While hypothermia is most likely at very cold temperatures, it can occur even at cool temperatures (above 40°F) if a person becomes chilled from rain, sweat, or submersion in cold water.

The risk is bigger for older adults with inadequate food, clothing, or heating; babies sleeping in cold bedrooms; people who remain outdoors for long periods (such as homeless, hikers, hunters, etc.) and those who use alcohol or illicit drugs.

Warning signs in adults include shivering, exhaustion or feeling very tired, confusion, fumbling hands, memory loss, slurred speech and drowsiness.

In babies, watch for bright red, cold skin, as well as very low energy.

The CDC considers hypothermia a medical emergency. If you notice any of the above signs, take the person's temperature. If it is below 95 degrees F, get medical attention immediately.

If you cannot obtain immediate medical help:

--Get the person into a warm room or shelter.

--Remove any wet clothing the person is wearing.

--Warm the center of the person's body—chest, neck, head, and groin—using an electric blanket, if available. You can also use skin-to-skin contact under loose, dry layers of blankets, clothing, towels, or sheets.

--Warm drinks can help increase body temperature, but do not give alcoholic drinks. Do not try to give beverages to an unconscious person.

--After their body temperature has increased, keep the person dry and wrap their body, including their head and neck, in a warm blanket.