With vast areas of Canada currently in the midst of a polar vortex, remaining safe in these frigid conditions is paramount.

Extreme cold has blanketed parts of Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec, to reach as cold as -55 degrees Celsius with the wind chill. Temperatures that low can freeze exposed skin in less than two minutes, according to

George Sharpe knows the risks of a deep cold all too well. About 10 years ago, the Saskatchewan native鈥檚 hands froze in -50 degree weather after he took his gloves off to change a flat tire.

鈥淚 kind of forgot momentarily that at that temperature, skin freezes in 30 seconds, never mind five minutes,鈥� Sharpe told CTV Regina. "You might not even feel it. The frostbite came out so fast I didn't feel anything.鈥�

frostbite occurs when blood vessels close to the skin constrict to protect the body鈥檚 core temperature. It makes the skin look yellowish or white, and in severe circumstances, black. Frostbite can lead to nerve damage or even the loss of limbs.

Once the damage is done, it can take years to heal. Sharpe is still going through surgeries and physical therapy 10 years later.

"It's a lifetime thing,鈥� he said. 鈥淚f you damage your hands that badly, it's for the rest of your life. You're not going to have normal hands again.鈥�

Health Canada says homeless people, outdoor workers, seniors, infants and winter sport enthusiasts are at a particular risk for frostbite and windburn. The agency is advises anyone outside in these conditions to wear the proper clothing, including layers of synthetic and wool fabrics.

Gloves, a hat, a scarf and a warm pair of socks are also recommended. If you鈥檙e out participating in winter activities, a ski mask and goggles are also important, Health Canada says.

If you鈥檙e heading outside in frigid conditions, Health Canada also suggests avoiding alcohol, which can make you feel warm even as your body loses temperature.

People suffering from mild frostbite can be treated by reheating the body either by moving indoors and wrapping yourself in blankets, or by applying heat directly to the affected area using water that鈥檚 just above body temperature. Those suffering from severe frostbite should go directly to a doctor.

Health Canada advises against rubbing or massaging the frostbitten area, which can actually cause more damage.

With a report from CTV Regina鈥檚 Cole Davenport