Cold weather conditions can cause an assortment of safety issues on a camping trip, including the danger of hypothermia or frostbite. A few safety tips however, can help make a winter camping trip go smoothly:
_ Always camp with others during the winter. Leave your itinerary with a friend or family member and check in with them on your return.
_ Watch for signs of hypothermia among a camping group. Uncontrolled shivering, poor motor coordination, mental confusion and mumbling are telltale signs. If someone exhibits these symptoms, get them into dry clothes or a sleeping bag. Have them huddle close to a warm, dry person. And, give them a warm beverage.
_ Check for signs of frostbite. Both protected and exposed skin is susceptible to freezing. White patches on the skin surface are an early indication of frostbite. If the skin does not return to its normal color after applying gentle pressure, seek medical attention immediately.
_ Pack a colorful bandana. During an emergency, you can attach the bandana to a ski pole and use it as a flag to alert rescue workers of your location.
SOURCE: L.L. Bean
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(c) 2009, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.
