6 frostbite patients admitted to Columbia St. Mary's in past 24 hours, officials urge caution in dangerous cold

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- With such dangerous cold expected for the next couple of days, an important reminder about frostbite. 

Most of us use common sense and bundle up in this weather, but when serious damage can happen in just minutes, it is also important to prepare for the unexpected. 

Ascension Columbia St. Mary's says they've admitted six frostbite patients into their burn center in the past 24 hours. 

They are asking people to pack blankets, mittens and hats in their car in case of a breakdown or accident and asking parents to take extra care in covering up their young ones before they leave. 

"So important if you're a young person and waiting for the bus to pick you up, make sure the kids are wearing proper footwear, hats, mittens, gloves. So important," said Melissa Kersten of Ascension Columbia St. Mary's Regional Burn Center. 

There have been recent advances in treating frostbite using blood thinners to improve circulation to the affected area. But the best way to deal with frostbite is to use caution and avoid a trip to the ER.