How should mild hypothermia be treated?

The correct approach to treating mild hypothermia involves using additional clothing layers. When a person is experiencing mild hypothermia, their body temperature has dropped below the normal range, and the primary goal is to increase their body temperature gradually and safely. Adding layers of clothing provides insulation, which helps retain body heat. It's important to ensure that the clothing is dry, as wet clothing can exacerbate heat loss.

Increased insulation is a straightforward method to minimize further heat loss and gradually warm the individual. The layers trap air, creating a barrier against the cold environment, which is essential to helping the hypothermic person regain body heat without causing stress to their body.

Other methods mentioned, such as consuming iced liquids, applying cold compresses, or engaging in vigorous exercise, would be inappropriate for mild hypothermia. Drinking iced liquids would lower body temperature further, cold compresses would do the same, and vigorous exercise can lead to an increased risk of muscle fatigue and heat generation that the body may not handle well in a state of hypothermia. Therefore, adding more clothing layers is the safest and most effective method for treating mild hypothermia.