A utility worker has painfully numb fingers after working in cold weather. What should you do next?

Getting the utility worker to a warmer place and drying their skin is the most appropriate action because it addresses both the symptoms of numbness and the potential for frostbite or cold-related injuries. When someone has numb fingers due to cold exposure, immediate warming is critical to prevent further damage. Transitioning them to a warmer environment helps restore normal body temperature and promotes circulation.

Additionally, drying the skin before warming helps avoid further irritation and possible tissue damage from moisture when exposed to cold. The cumulative effect of being in a warmer place and drying the skin supports the body's natural rewarming processes.

It's essential to approach rewarming cautiously. Sudden or aggressive rewarming techniques, such as rapid rewarming with warm water, might not be suitable if frostbite is present. Similarly, rubbing the hands with snow could cause further injury and is not effective for restoring warmth or circulation. Skin-to-skin contact, while generally a good way to share warmth, is less practical in a case of severely cold and potentially injured skin. Overall, ensuring the person is in a safe and warm environment is the first step toward effective treatment in cold-related injuries.