For Outside Survival
Winter Weather Tips For Outside Survival
Frostbite and Hypothermia Tips
- Dress warmly; wear loose-fitting, layered, light-weight clothing; layers can be removed to prevent perspiration and chill
- Outer garments should be tightly woven and water repellent
- Mittens are warmer than gloves and are recommended
- Stretch before you go out; if you go out to shovel snow, do a few stretching exercises to warm up your body. Also take frequent breaks; those with heart problems or who lead a sedentary lifestyle, be careful of over exertion and heart attack; be aware of the symptoms of dehydration
- Cover your mouth; protect your lungs from extremely cold air by covering your mouth
- Keep dry; change wet clothing frequently to prevent loss of body heat; wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly
- Remember to help your neighbors who may require special assistance (infants, elderly, and people with disabilities)
Frostbite is a severe reaction to cold exposure than can permanently damage its victims. A loss of feeling and a white or pale appearance in fingers, toes, nose, and ear lobes are symptoms of frostbite.
Hypothermia is a condition brought on when the body temperature drops to less than 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms of hypothermia include uncontrollable shivering, slow speech, memory lapses, frequent stumbling, drowsiness, and exhaustion.
If frostbite or hypothermia is suspected:
- Begin warming the person slowly and seek immediate medical assistance
- Warm the person's trunk first; use your own body heat to help; arms and legs should be warmed last because stimulation of the limbs can drive cold blood toward the heart and lead to heart failure
- Put the person in dry clothing and wrap their entire body in a blanket