Hypothermia occurs when more heat escapes from your body than your body can produce. Signs and symptoms of hypothermia may include gradual loss of mental and physical abilities. Severe hypothermia can lead to death.

For most people, hypothermia isn't a serious risk. Still, each year nearly 700 people in the United States die of hypothermia. Prolonged exposure to cold air or cold water temperatures are common causes.

When you're outdoors enjoying such activities as camping, hunting, fishing, boating and skiing, be aware of weather conditions and whether you or others with you are wet and cold. If you get cold and wet, move indoors and get warm and dry early - before you develop hypothermia.

Symptoms of hypothermia may be:

• Uncontrolled shivering
• Slow or unclear speech
• Feeling extremely tired
• Stumbling when attempting to walk
• Confusion (person cannot think clearly)
• Semi-consciousness or unconsciousness

If a person becomes unconscious, get medical help immediately. If cardiac arrest (heart attack) has occurred, have someone call for medical assistance and then apply CPR.  WARNING: Do not warm the person too fast.

Bring the person indoors or to a dry place protected from the wind.

Remove wet clothing and cover the person with dry blankets. Make sure to cover the head, hands, and feet

Put the person in a cot or bed next to a warm -- not hot -- heater.

Lie under the covers next to the person to transfer your own body heat. If possible, have someone else lie on the other side.

Give the person warm -- not hot -- broth or soup. Do not give alcohol to drink.

Wrap an infant inside your own clothing against your skin.

To prevent hypothermia, wear warm, multi-layered clothing with good hand and feet protection (avoid overly constricting wrist bands, socks, and shoes).

Wear warm headgear. This is particularly important since significant heat is lost through an unprotected head.

If possible, change into dry clothes whenever clothing becomes wet.

Find appropriate shelter to stay warm.