Winter Camping? Avoid Frostbite

Technorati tags: winter camping, frost bite, camping safety
Winter Camping anyone? Not me, but I will go hiking or walking in the cold. Places and views I know take on a totally different character in the winter. Today’s post is about keeping frostbite at bay while you enjoy the outdoors.

What causes Frostbite?
When the body begins to feel the impact of the cold, the brain tells it to shut down the blood flow to the extremities to preserve core temperature (a survival strategy to avoid hypothermia). But cutting off the blood flow leaves the extremities without the very thing needed for protection against frostbite. Unable to stay warm, these parts of the body gradually chill and lose sensation.

This causes the fluid in the cells to freeze, and that causes the damage.

How to treat frostbite:

• Move the victim out of the cold and into a warm, protected place.
• Avoid exposing the affected area to sharp objects or dry heat (fire, hot pads, etc.) because the flesh is numb and might get burned or otherwise injured unknowingly.
• Do not thaw frostbite unless you can guarantee that the flesh will not be refrozen.
• To thaw the affected flesh, either immerse the part of the body in warm (not hot) water or soak a cloth in warm (not hot) water and gently lay it on the affected area. If there are any blisters, leave them alone. Do not rub or massage the frozen flesh.
• The thawing process may be painful for serious frostbite. Continue with treatment in spite of anguished protest. After thawing, carefully wrap the affected area with clean bandaging material. Keep fingers and toes separated.
• Get medical attention if necessary.

The biggest cause of frostbite is exposed skin and cold wind is the culprit more often than just frigid temperature. When camping in winter, dress in layers that trap air inside. Wear clothing that is waterproof and breathable (to allow perspiration to escape). Keep your head, neck and wrists covered to preserve you core temperature. Mittens are often better than gloves, because fingers can keep each other warm. Make sure mittens, socks and boots are not so tight they restrict blood flow to fingers and toes. Wear gators to keep snow out of boots. In extreme cold, wear a Neoprene Face Mask, Black.

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