Which temperature of the environment poses a risk for hypothermia?

The correct answer is that temperatures below 32°F (0°C) pose a significant risk for hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, leading to a dangerous drop in core body temperature. When the environment is at or below freezing, the risk of hypothermia greatly increases because exposed skin can lose heat rapidly and the body may not be able to maintain its normal temperature.

While hypothermia is most commonly associated with freezing temperatures, it can also occur in milder conditions if a person is wet, exhausted, or inadequately clothed for the environment. For example, wind chill can exacerbate heat loss in temperatures above freezing, but the most acute risk generally arises when temperatures dip below freezing. This makes it essential for individuals in cold environments to take preventive measures against hypothermia, such as dressing in layers and staying dry.