Daniel Dabbs

BRACING FOR THE COLDER WEATHER

It’s officially fall - meaning football, bonfires, and cooler temperatures. And, depending on where you are, temperatures may drop drastically -- especially at night. However you choose to spend these cooler days to come, make sure you’re prepared for the worst. Most people forced into survival situations (or who end up in camping trips gone wrong) die of hypothermia, which can easily be avoided with basic survival skills.

Here are some basic ways to make sure you’re prepared in the face of cooler temps and unexpected harsh weather.

1.ShelterThe right shelter can keep you warm and dry in even the harshest conditions. Always keep a tent on you incase of emergency, but if you don’t have one, you can still survive. Finding materials to construct natural shelters such as caves, huts, logs, and debris can save your life.A few things to keep in mind when building a shelter:

Prevent heat loss
Prevent water loss
Keep away from hazards
Stay insulated from any harsh weather i.e. away from mountains or ridges
Stay away from water runoff i.e. ravines or valleys
Ensure you have a solid heat source i.e. body heat or a fire

2.Fire.Always carry several fire starters and types of tinder, even if it’s “just a day hike.” It can help warm your body and your shelter, dry your clothes, boil your water, and cook your food. Also, fire can provide psychological support in a survival situation, creating a sense of security and safety.

3.Tinder.During any type of wilderness travel, it is best to carry multiple fire-starting tools, such as a lighter, matches, and flint and steel. Tinder can also be made using cardboard and wax, or you can choose the more common method of covering a cotton ball in petroleum jelly. Keeping these items on your person at all times can keep you safe and warm, especially in emergency situations. In more harsh conditions, charcloth, flint, and steel can be used.

4.Warm (and dry) clothing.Even if you’ve checked the weather multiple times and know you’re looking at clear skies and warm temperatures, it’s always a good idea to come prepared with a few warm articles of clothing that can be used in emergencies. Keep trash bags, tarps, ponchos, and gloves with you when you embark on any trip. Incase of an emergency, many of these can be used to insulate your clothing and shoes.

5.Water.When your body is cold (or if you’re experience stress from being in a survival situation), your body will work harder and often lead to dehydration. If you don’t come prepared with plenty of purified drinking water, you have the option to use snow and rain to do the trick. Just be sure to grab snow from branches to avoid contamination, and boil your water before drinking.

If you find yourself in any type of survival situation, our hope is that you can remain calm and safe as you find your way out. Ultimately, the most important thing to do is stop, avoid panic, and put your health and safety first.

Remember: being overly prepared can save your life. What’s your go-to cold weather tip? Share it with us so we can all learn.