GuardAssist
GuardAssist
UK Operational Guidance
999
Emergency First Aid
All emergency guides
Emergency

Hypothermia

medium

Warm gradually. Never rewarm limbs first or give alcohol.

Symptoms

  • Shivering (stops in severe cases)
  • Cold pale skin
  • Slow, shallow breathing
  • Confusion, slurred speech
  • Drowsy

Actions

  • Move to shelter, out of wind.
  • Remove wet clothing. Wrap in dry layers and blankets — cover head.
  • Warm sugary drinks if fully conscious.
  • Rewarm core (torso) — not limbs.
  • Call 999 for severe cases or if not improving.

What NOT to do

  • No alcohol
  • No hot bath (shock)
  • Don't rub limbs

GuardAssist provides operational decision support. It does not replace formal training, employer procedures, assignment instructions or professional judgement. In a life-threatening emergency, dial 999.