FARGO -- Freezing temperatures will ease by the end of the week, but staying bundled up remains important as winter lingers.

Sanford paramedics warn that frostbite can set in within minutes in strong winds, even if skin is covered. Spending long periods outside without warming up reduces blood flow to fingers and toes, increasing the risk of lasting damage.

"We always say, layer, layer, layer," said Don Martin, Sanford Ambulance operations manager. "And then as you start to heat up, you can start to take those layers off. But be careful how much you're taking off, because at some point it can come back to get you."

Martin added that the recent sunny daytime conditions have helped limit cold-related emergency calls, but he urges residents to stay cautious and prepared as winter continues.