Tip of the Month

Hypothermia is the lowering of the body's core temperature. The first major organ to be affected is your brain. Usually this results in irrational behavior like discarding "heavy" clothing.

Hypothermia is usually caused by a combination of moisture and wind. Most fatalities occur above 32 degress (and below fifty degrees).

Prepare ahead by checking the weather, planning for the worst case scenario and notifying someone of your default time. (when to call the authorities if you're not back).

Dress in layers that will 1) stop the wind; 2) stop outside moisture and 3) wick persiration away from your skin.

Polypropelene under wool, followed by a synthetic outer shell designed to allow perspiration to evaporate but keep rain out is about the ideal system. Unless you have more money than I do.

WOOL?? YUK!! That stuffs ITCHY. Not if silk or polypro is worn underneath. And, wool retains about 80% of its ability to keep you warm, even if its wet.

FORGET THE BEARS. WORRY ABOUT HYPOTHERMIA.

Hypothermia is the most dangerous creature in the woods.

It can kill you in 20 minutes.

Learn to recognize the first syptoms of Hypothermia in yourself and others. (uncontrollable shivering) Take immediate action. (get out of the wind and rain, get the wet clothes off)

Yes, OFF and build a small fire that you can cuddle up to. Embarressment will get you dead. If you have the material, build a shelter and get in a sleeping bag with someone else. Who said hiking is no fun.

If you told someone where you were going they'll come and get you. If you didn't, you'll spend a miserable night drying out and you'll have a great story to tell your grandchildren.

LEARN TO SURVIVE! PLAN TO SURVIVE! ENJOY SURVIVAL!