How to Maximize Safety on a Winter Hike

Winter hiking allows you to experience the beauty of nature in a relatively unpopulated wilderness. Take the following precautions to ensure safety.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Waterproof Matches
• Hiking Boots
• Parkas
• Sports Sunglasses
• Thermal Underwear
• Wool Hats
• Wool Or Fleece Socks
• Wool Scarves
• High-energy Snacks
• Salty Snacks
• Waterproof Gloves
• Wilderness Permits
• Ice Axe
• Snow Shovels
• Snowboard Goggles
• Water Bottle Insulators
• Water Bottles
• Windproof Lighters
• Flashlights

1. Bring the right equipment. Outdoor magazines and outdoor-gear stores provide lists of essential gear. Use these as a guide when preparing for your hike (see Related eHows).
2. Check local weather and avalanche conditions before heading out by calling the National Forest Service or a weather hotline. You can also consult a Web site that regularly updates information.
3. Carry an ice axe and learn how to self-arrest before heading out to alpine territory. You can learn this skill by taking a daylong mountaineer-training course, or by learning from an experienced friend, a book or a Web site. Be sure to practice in a safe area before heading out.
4. Layer your clothing properly: you'll need a wicking layer, insulating layer and outer shell. Carry extra wicking and insulating layers in case what you are wearing gets wet.
5. Carry a small snow shovel if traveling in avalanche territory. You may need it to dig yourself or someone else out of an avalanche.
6. Carry plenty of snacks rich in carbohydrates that will metabolize and warm the body quickly.
7. Carry plenty of water to keep well hydrated.
8. Let someone know what trailhead you will be starting from, and your expected destination and return time before departing.
9. Take frequent breaks to eat, hydrate and change into dry clothing if necessary.
10. Use a buddy-check system to keep an eye on each other for signs of hypothermia, altitude illness, dehydration or frostbite.
11. Check in with yourself periodically to watch for areas of your body that feel cold, tingly, painful or numb. These may be the first signs of cold injury.
12. Rewarm the body at the earliest signs of cold injuries.
13. Start your hike early and set a reasonable turn-around time. Plan to get off any peaks before afternoon storms set in, and to be back at the trailhead before dark.
14. Watch for inclement changes in the weather; allow time enough to turn back or seek shelter if necessary.