…before you leave can make all the difference.
Before heading outdoors, check the weather forecast and be prepared for conditions to change. Take adequate protection from cold, wind and moisture, wear appropriate clothing and carry extra dry layers.
Food and fluids matter too. Regular food and non-alcoholic drinks provide the energy the body needs to produce heat, especially when conditions get cold.
Think about the terrain, how long you will be out, the experience of the group and what you will do if the weather deteriorates.
Good preparation doesn’t just make an outdoor trip more comfortable—it can prevent a cold situation from becoming a medical emergency.
Tomorrow: What are the early warning signs that someone is becoming hypothermic?
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Acknowledgement
We fact-check data and information against recognised sources, including the New Zealand Resuscitation Council, Health Navigator New Zealand, St John, and other recognised entities specialising in the specific subject content. Protocols vary, and we note differences where necessary.