LOCALadk Magazine
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Winter 2018 LOCALadk Magazine 5 LOCALadk 10 Ways to Prepare for Winter Hiking A message from the Department of Environmental Conservation Winter hiking is fun and rewarding, but it requires careful preparation. Follow these 10 tips for staying safe. 1. Dress in Layers Temperatures change quickly and var y significantly from trailheads to summits. Dress in warm wool or blended fabric layers, which, unlike cotton, keep you warm even when wet. Pack a wind protectant layer. Avoid over-dressing at the start of a hike so you don't sweat and get cold. 2. Check the Weather The Adirondacks have dramatic climate variations with- in relatively small distances. Check the forecast for where you'll be hiking, and know how the weather will progress throughout the day. Also, know when it's time to turn back! 3. Warm Shoes and Socks Nothing ruins a hike faster than wet feet. Wear durable, waterproof, and well-insulated shoes. Socks should be wool, or a material blend, and should keep your feet warm. Always pack an extra pair just in case. 4. Bring Traction Devices Trails are covered in ice and snow from late fall until ear- ly spring. Bring appropriate traction devices: snowshoes for deep snow and crampons for ice. Snow is often deeper than it appears, especially along the sides of trails. Snowshoes prevent post-holing (leaving deep footprints in the snow), which can cause injuries to others. Be mindful around spruce trees; their light branches hold snow high in the air, creating deep traps underneath. 5. Hike with a Buddy Hiking with a buddy is fun and much safer— especially if there's an emergency! A friend can administer first aid and contact help. 6. Know the Signs of Hypothermia Hypothermia happens when your body loses heat faster than it produces it, resulting in dangerously low body tem- peratures. Symptoms include: shivering, slurred speech, slow/shallow breathing, weak pulse, poor coordination, leth- argy, disorientation, and loss of consciousness. Keep an eye on hiking companions; symptoms progress gradually. If hy- pothermia is suspected, get the person out of the cold ASAP. Remove wet clothing and dress or wrap them in warm, dr y layers. Be gentle; jarring movements can trigger cardiac ar- rest. Monitor their breathing and keep them awake. 7. Keep Your Food Warm Healthy, calorie rich food provides the energy needed to tackle winter hiking and keep your temperature up. Prevent food from freezing by breaking snacks into smaller pieces, wrapping food in clothing or insulated packaging, and by placing it in the center of your pack or close to your body. 8. Winter Water Filtration A trustworthy water filtration system is important. Wheth- er using tablets or filters, neither will work if all available wa- ter is frozen. Use bottle insulators or bring a melting system, such as a backpacking stove and pot. 9. Emergency Essentials Pack as though you plan to spend the night. If you're on the trail longer than expected, you'll be prepared! Essential items include: headlamp, first aid kit, fire starters, water fil- tration and boiling method, extra layers, emergency blanket, food, water, and a map and compass. 10. Know Your Route Be confident in your route. Study a map of the trail and surrounding area before heading out. Know the distance and how long it should take; remember it requires more energy to hike through snow and ice, so plan extra time. Know which junctions to expect and what turns to take. Always bring your compass.