Mummified in layers of ski garb or making do with what they had in their closets, students tried to protect themselves against frostbite yesterday.

With a morning low of minus 18, Accu-Weather, 619 W. College Ave., pronounced yesterday the coldest day of the century.

"The jet stream moved to a point where it tapped into the cold air from northern Canada and Siberia and brought it down to the U.S.," said Ken Reeves, senior meteorologist at Accu-Weather.

Those whom Jack Frost nipped waited outside Ritenour Health Center for frostbite treatment before it opened. Dr. Lew Logan, a physician at Ritenour, said he has seen several incidents of frostbite on ears, toes and fingers in the past few days. Most of the cases were first degree -- pain, redness and swelling.

Students may think they are protecting themselves by wearing baseball caps, but they really need hats covering their ears, Logan said.

"A five-minute exposure is enough to produce frostbite on the ears," he said.

The medical staff at the health center met yesterday morning to issue a warning to students about frostbite. A news release from University Health Services also cautioned students, faculty and staff that "frostbite is real" and to seek medical attention if skin stayed pale, turned dark or blistered.

"They really are very concerned about the students," said Susan Kennedy, associate director of University Health Services. The staff was especially worried about students from different climates who don't know how to deal with the cold, she added.

Temperatures should moderate within the next week -- creeping into the teens today, the 20s tomorrow and maybe the "balmy 30s" on the weekend, Reeves predicted.

"It's almost going to feel like a fall for us," he said.

Meanwhile, students should take proper precautions and bundle up when going outside.

"It is dangerous if you are not properly dressed," Reeves said. "Obviously, you'd be better off to not be exposed to this."

Painfully aware that "frostbite is real," many students wound scarves around their faces with only their eyes peering out.

"You can't even recognize anybody anymore," said Victor Villar (freshman-psychology).

Gillian Scott (sophomore-exercise and sport science), taking refuge in the HUB between two morning classes, summed up the wishes of many.

"I'd rather be in bed," she said.