Quick Answer
Hypothermia occurs when body temperature drops below 95°F. Prevention focuses on staying dry, sheltered, and active. Layered clothing traps insulating air. Avoid alcohol and exhaustion both of which accelerate heat loss. Maintain core temperature through activity and calories. Even mild wind dramatically increases heat loss—shelter is critical.
Understanding Hypothermia Development
Hypothermia occurs when core body temperature drops below 95°F. Shivering initially generates heat—when shivering stops, severe hypothermia has developed. Progressive confusion, slurred speech, and poor coordination appear. Severe hypothermia becomes quickly fatal—prevention is critical.
Layering System
Multiple clothing layers insulate better than single thick garment. Base layer wicks moisture away from skin. Mid layers trap insulating air. Outer shell blocks wind and water. Remove layers as needed preventing overheating and sweat accumulation. Modern synthetics outperform cotton which loses insulation when wet.
Shelter and Wind Protection
Wind dramatically increases heat loss—15 mph wind combined with 40°F creates wind chill equivalent to 22°F. Adequate shelter becomes non-negotiable. Even crude shelters eliminate wind protecting body heat. Insulation from ground prevents heat loss through conduction.
Activity and Calorie Management
Sustained activity generates body heat. Excessive fatigue impairs judgment and slows metabolism. Balanced activity levels maintain heat without exhaustion. Consuming calories provides fuel for heat generation. Carbohydrates and fats maximize energy availability.
Moisture Management
Wet clothing dramatically increases heat loss. Remove wet garments immediately replacing with dry clothing. Evaporative cooling from wet clothing causes rapid heat loss. Prevention requires managing sweat—adjusting activity levels and clothing prevents wet-from-sweat accumulation.
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