What one person regards as
extremely cold weather, may not be a serious concern for someone who is always
outdoors, but survival is equally important for both.
“Cold is a far greater threat to survival
than it appears. It decreases your ability to think and weakens your will to do
anything except to get warm. Cold is an insidious enemy; as it numbs the mind
and body, it subdues the will to survive.” (1)
“Cold
weather survival 101” (2) by Jeanie Lerche Davis, on the MedicineNet.com
website suggests that outdoor survival, when it is extremely cold presents
serious concerns including frostbite and hypothermia.
It is important to recognize
the symptoms of frostbite immediately, as it happens quickly in cold
weather and affects parts of the body not adequately protected, areas exposed
to extremely cold air. The face, hands and feet are particularly vulnerable to
frostbite.
If any of the following
symptoms are experienced, one should get out of the cold.
“Symptoms include tingling
sensations on your nose, ears, toes, and fingers as well as red skin (early
stage), whitened skin (middle stage), hard skin (severe), blisters, and
blackened tissue (severe), gangrenous stage.” (3)
Most children, teens and adults
will experience some degree of frostbite, at some time in their lives.
“No. 1 concern:
"Frostbite," says John Wilhelm, MD, Chicago
Note that frostbite is normally
associated with extremely cold winter weather, where temperatures drop below
freezing. In northern climates, the temperature can exceed minus forty degrees
Fahrenheit, but even temperatures like ten or twenty degrees below zero can be
a cause for concern.
On the other hand, hypothermia
can occur at any time during the year when one is outdoors. This is
particularly true when there are sudden storms. Those who travel long
distances, go camping or boating, oten experience extremes in temperatures or severe
cold weather.
Learn to recognize the symptoms
of hypothermia, because it is more insidious and occurs slowly, as the “body’s
core temperature drops” (5).
Being outdoors is not always a
cause for alarm, if a person is ready for extremely cold weather, but a wary
camper, traveler or boater knows that staying warm is vital in terms of
survival.
“Hypothermia doesn't happen in
a matter of minutes like frostbite, but slowly over several hours of exposure
to cold," Wilhelm says. “The possible result: coma and death. Wearing wet
clothing or being immersed in cold water for any length of time heightens that
risk.” (6)
A person may not be aware that
he or she is entering into a hypothermic state, as it can occur unexpectedly.
Parents may not realize that their children are hypothermic and that their
elderly parents or others, may be suffering from exposure and possible
hypothermia, particularly when they are not able to communicate properly with
them.
“Signs of hypothermia are
slurred speech, slow pulse, loss of coordination, loss of bladder control,
stiff muscles, a puffy face, and mental confusion.” (7)
There are ways one can prepare
ahead of time, when there is the possibility of extremely cold weather. Being
ready for possible, wet weather is a good idea. Many communities offer basic
survival courses for children, teens and adults. This will include lessons in
first aid important in situations where there is the possibility of
exposure, frostbite or hypothermia.
Note that in instances of
frostbite, care should be taken to warm up the frostbitten area slowly without
rubbing the skin. When there is exposure leading to hypothermia, the whole body
needs warmth, as soon as possible.
Knowing how to do the CPR is
important if hypothermia occurs. It can lead to a possible heart attack or
stroke, particularly in the elderly. Placing a thermal blanket over a person
who has hypothermia, may save his or her life. Regular blankets, sleeping bags
or even jackets, coats and sweaters may be used. A large piece of plastic may
help to keep a person dry and prevent further problems related to hypothermia.
Carrying a well-stocked first
aid kit is extremely important, as there may be dressings and medications
required for frostbite or hypothermia.
Staying well informed of
changes in the weather, at all times, will help to avoid situations where there
is likely to be frostbite or hypothermia due to extreme weather or temperature
changes. Carrying a small, battery-operated radio will help to stay informed.
Knowing where to obtain
emergency assistance is important. Having a way to contact medical help when
needed, is crucial in terms of survival in extremely cold weather. Remember
that cell phones may be out of range at times, in the mountains or wilderness
country.
Letting others know where you
are going and how long you expect to be there, may save your life and that of
others, in an extremely cold weather situation or in a sudden storm, at
any time of the year.
Wearing appropriate clothing
can help to prevent both frostbite and hypothermia. Clothing that can be
layered is ideal for unexpected changes in the weather. It is easier to
put on extra, warm clothing than it is to take if off. Make certain to
cover the limbs with several layers of clothing. Keeping your head warm is important.
Learning how to build or find
appropriate shelter when it is extremely cold, may save your life or that of
others. Find courses on how to build emergency shelters.
Knowing how to build a fire can
ensure survival. Make certain that you have dry firewood and matches to start a
fire, when you are camping in the wilderness or driving long distances.
Travelling with extra, thermal
clothing or blankets that are appropriate for extremely cold or wet
weather can prevent unexpected problems.
Do not leave children or
elderly people to fend for themselves in extremely cold or wet weather, as they
may need guidance and assistance. Disorientation can occur quickly.
Carrying extra sleeping bags and blankets is indicated when one is travelling with the intent of camping
outdoors, particularly when extremely cold weather is anticipated. Purchasing a
weatherproof tent is advisable for travelers and campers.
Have an emergency back up plan
everyone is aware of, in case of extremely cold or wet weather.
Carry extra food and supplies,
including water, dried fruits and nuts when you are venturing into the
wilderness or going to an area of high elevation and possible snow. Drinking
hot soup, coffee or tea, may help to warm someone who is very cold, so carry a thermos
with you.
Do not panic. Keep open
communication lines with others, so that each person knows exactly what to do
in an emergency.
Seek to get dry as soon as
possible, if you do get drenched in a storm or on a boat excursion.
Always keep your feet dry by wearing
proper socks and boots. Have several extra pairs with you, just in case.
If stranded in extremely cold
weather, do not leave your vehicle, as it can provide shelter for you.
Avoid exposure to the wind when
possible by wearing raincoats, ski jackets or sweaters with hoods. A light,
nylon jacket worn over other clothing can help to maintain your body
temperature. Different kinds of sports clothing fabrics will keep out the cold
and help you to stay dry. Carry extra jackets, sweaters, gloves and scarves, in
case it turns extremely cold while you are on a long trip or out boating.
Check children’s hands and feet
regularly, as they should feel warm. Seniors may have circulation
problems. Watch the color of their fingers and toes. Their nail beds
should be a healthy pink color, not blue.
Stay close together when it is
extremely cold, as each person can provide body heat for others. No one should
venture out alone in stormy weather.
If someone appears to have
frostbite or is hypothermic and disoriented, make certain he or she is warm.
Seek medical help for him or her, immediately. Keep notes of what is
happening, events like the length of time spent in the water.
These are basic survival
guidelines for extremely cold weather.
Many survival skills
are common sense. They may be instrumental in saving save your life
or that of others, when the weather becomes extremely cold or wet.
Even a sudden thunderstorm
can result in hypothermic conditions. No one is exempt from exposure to the
elements. Taking proper precautionary measures can help to protect
everyone and may save their lives.
No comments:
Post a Comment