What is the first step to treat frostbite?

The first step to treat frostbite is to move the victim to a warm area. This is crucial because it helps to prevent further tissue damage that could occur if the victim remains in a cold environment. By getting the individual out of the cold, you can minimize the risk of frostbite progressing and ensure that their overall body temperature begins to rise, which aids in the healing process.

Once in a warm location, other treatment options can be implemented, such as gradually rewarming the affected areas. This approach should be done carefully to avoid shocking the tissues that have been frostbitten.

While covering the area with a blanket or providing warm liquids can be supportive actions, they are secondary steps following the immediate need to remove the victim from the cold. Applying ice directly to frostbite is harmful and counterproductive; it can worsen the condition by further freezing the tissues.