Cold+Weather+Risks+and+First+Aid

One of the very obvious things about winter camping survival is how dangerous it can be to live out in a cold temperature.

These are the main risks about winter camp survival:

1. Hypothermia: this is when your body core cools below the normal temperature of 37 C Signs that you are getting hypothermia are: excessive shivering, disorientation and confusion, extreme tiredness and irritability. When you notice these symptoms you must, as soon as possible, do everything to prevent further heat loss by making certain clothing is dry, their core (head, neck, sides of chest and groin) is covered and protected from wind.

2. Frostnip and Frostbite: when skin is exposed to the air, it can freeze. The sign of frostnip/bite is the skin turning white and becoming "wooden", with possibly a loss of feeling. If this happens, the first thing to do is to re-warm the area by blowing on it or holding it against a warm area of the body. It is important to not rub the area as the skin might be damaged more. If the frostbite is severe, it might be necessary to re-warm the area by putting it in a warm bath but you must be very careful to not have too hot of water or you can burn the person without them even feeling it.

3. Snow Blindness: even on a cloudy day, being outside for a long time with the light reflecting off the snow can cause snow blindness. It is important to wear sunglasses/goggles. If eyes become red, irritated or swollen you should apply cold compresses and not be in brightly lit area and it is important to not rub your eyes or you can damage them more.