If someone is suffering from hypothermia, what action should you avoid?

When someone is suffering from hypothermia, it is crucial to avoid shaking or rubbing the person vigorously. This action can cause the heart to go into a dangerous arrhythmia. When a person is hypothermic, their body is in a state where muscles and tissue may be fragile and susceptible to injury. Abrasive movements can worsen their condition by increasing circulation too rapidly, which might lead to more serious complications.

In contrast, providing warm fluids, wrapping the individual in a blanket, and moving them to a warmer location are all actions that can help to safely raise their body temperature. Warm fluids can assist in warming the body from the inside, while blankets provide insulation and help to retain any body heat. Moving the person to a warmer environment is effectively minimizing exposure to cold, thereby supporting the body's recovery process.