Hypothermia is not only a winter risk. Rain, sweat, cold water, wind and sudden weather changes can chill someone even at relatively mild temperatures. Risk rises when fatigue and confusion undermine decisions.
The aim is to act on early signs, not wait for the person to “push a little farther”.
Three-stage plan
- Before: Layers, rain protection and reserve · Cooling begins: Stop, add dry layers and find shelter · Symptoms appear: Insulate, warm carefully and seek help
1. Plan for cold and wet
Check forecast, wind, rain, elevation and early turnaround points. NPS warns that conditions can change quickly and hypothermia can be a year-round risk.
2. Manage moisture
CDC says sweat and wet clothing accelerate heat loss. Remove a layer before heavy sweating and add protection before rain or prolonged wind exposure.
3. Carry a working layer system
Use a moisture-moving base, insulating middle and windproof/waterproof outer layer. NPS advises avoiding water-holding fabrics such as cotton and denim. Pack dry hat, gloves and socks in protected storage.
4. Do not rely on movement as the only heat source
Pace can mask cooling until the group stops. Plan food, shelter, ground insulation and reserve for a delay or injury.
5. Treat shivering as a signal
Constant shivering means heat is being lost and the person needs shelter and warmth. Early signs also include tiredness, clumsiness and confusion.
6. Watch for deterioration
NPS lists uncontrolled shivering, slow or slurred speech, memory lapses, incoherence, poor coordination, stumbling, drowsiness and exhaustion. Shivering stopping is not always improvement; it can disappear as cooling advances.
7. Stop and insulate
Find weather protection, remove wet clothing and replace it with dry layers. Put a barrier between the person and the ground. Do not send them walking alone or continue merely to complete the route.
8. Warm sensibly
Keep the person awake if possible. NPS recommends warm non-alcoholic drinks, while CDC says never give a drink to an unconscious person. Follow emergency-dispatch instructions.
9. Seek professional help
Call 112 for confusion, slurred speech, loss of coordination, marked drowsiness, unconsciousness or deterioration. Hypothermia is a medical emergency; an article does not replace first-aid training.
Checklist
- [ ] Forecast and turnaround points are checked.
- [ ] Windproof and waterproof protection is packed.
- [ ] Dry spare layers are protected.
- [ ] Ground insulation and emergency shelter are available.
- [ ] The group monitors speech, coordination and behaviour.
- [ ] Everyone knows when to stop and call 112.
