A FIRST aid charity has issued advice to the public about how to stay safe during the winter months.

St John Ambulance has reminded people how to deal with frostbite and hypothermia.

Both conditions are rare but it is useful to be prepared and know the symptoms during the current low temperatures.

Frostbite is when part of the skin and other tissues freeze due to low temperatures.

It usually affects the fingers and toes — parts of the body furthest from the heart.

Frostbite can lead to blood vessels and soft tissues becoming permanently damaged.

Possible symptoms include pins and needles, numbness of the area and colour change to the skin.

To treat frostbite, people should warm the affected area, put on a light dressing and take the recommended dose of paracetamol.

Hypothermia is a condition which happens when someone’s body temperature drops below 35 degrees. It is important to treat this condition quickly as it could be life-threatening if left untreated.

Symptoms include shivering and pale skin, reduced level of response and slow and weakening pulse.

To treat hypothermia, remove and replace wet clothes and call 999/112 for emergency help.