LOCALadk | DEC
PHINNEY
DESIGN GROUP
ARcHItEctURE •INtERIOR DESIGN
GREEN BUIlDING cONSUltING
cONStRUctION mANAGEmENt
BE SAFE WHEN RECREATING IN THE WINTER
By New York State DEC
The best way to get through the long
Adirondack winter is to embrace it. Get
out and ski, snowshoe, skate, sled, ice
fish.
Plan your activity carefully. Know the
trails, the terrain and snow depths you
will encounter. Choose a route that you are physically capable
of accomplishing. Always check the weather forecast just
prior to setting out.
Proper dress will ensure that you are warm and dry even in
the coldest weather. Wear layers of wool, fleece or other noncotton clothing and socks; a wool or fleece hat and gloves or
mittens; and wind/water resistant outer wear and a good pair
of winter boots.
Pack a day pack with the necessities to prevent you from
getting lost and spending the night in the woods. Include
plenty of food and water; extra clothing and socks; a map and
compass (know how to use them); first-aid kit; a flashlight or
headlamp (darkness can surprise you); sun glasses and sunblock protection on sunny days. Also ensolite pads, a stove
with extra fuel and a bivy sack or space blankets.
If you plan to ski backcountry slopes be sure to see DEC's
Avalanche (http://www.dec.ny.gov/public/950.html) web page
for important information on avoiding avalanches.
Prior to leaving provide an itinerary of your activity to a
family member or friend. The DEC Emergency Dispatch
number is 518-891-0235 if you don't return on time.
Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, eat plenty of food
to maintain energy levels; and rest often. These practices will
keep you warm and prevent hypothermia.
Wear snowshoes or skis wherever the snow depth is 8 inches
or more to prevent "post-holing," avoid injury and ease travel
on snow. "Post-holing" ruins the trails for others and makes it
dangerous to traverse.
PHINNEYDESIGN.cOm
(518) 587-7120
142 Grand Avenue | Saratoga Springs
facebook.com/phinneydesigngroup
14 LOCALadk Magazine Fall into Winter 2013
Summit conditions will be worse than conditions at the
trailhead. Expect colder temperatures, stronger winds,
deeper snows, ice and possible storm conditions. Traction
devices or ice crampons should be carried for use on icy
mountaintops and other exposed areas.
DEC's Adirondack Trail Information (www.dec.ny.gov/
outdoor/7865.html) web pages provide current information
and links to ensure you are properly prepared before entering
the backcountry.
