The majority of cases of hypothermia occur within the temperature range of 30-50 degrees Fahrenheit. In a good number of these cases, the victim didn't even realize they had hypothermia. Another common aspect of many hypothermia victims is that they are improperly dressed for the temperature, although they thought their clothing was adequate. Did you know your body has a warning system to alert you of the beginning stages of hypothermia?
Hypothermia - Learn To Recognize The Dangers
In stating that the majority of hypothermia cases occur in the 30-50 degree temperature range, I'm not suggesting that this temperature range is optimal for causing hypothermia.
Proper dress will prevent hypothermia
The fact is, you'll get hypothermia much quicker in much lower temperatures. The problem is that too many people venture out in this temperature range inadequately dressed. At first the temperature may not feel that cold. Your body naturally goes into heat preserving mode. It cannot naturally maintain an adequate temperature during prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. In the 30-50 degree temperature range your body temperature lowers much slower than in colder temperatures. This makes it harder to recognize. Have you ever sat in a hot bath until the water gets cold? It isn't that easy to tell that the water is cold by the time you get out.
It is important to prepare before you go out into temperatures below 65 degrees. You should always expect that the temperature will lower. Especially if it is later in the day or close to dusk when temperatures typically begin to drop. Layering is one way to prepare. Wear multiple layers of wool or synthetic clothing or base layers. If it is windy, you'll want an outer layer that is windproof. This prevents the wind from stealing away your natural body heat as it blows through your clothing. DO NOT wear 100% cotton clothing! Cotton absorbs moisture and sweat. It dries very slowly. It doesn't retain heat when it gets wet. A wet or damp cotton undershirt cools your body temperature quickly and can lead to hypothermia.
Recognize the Beginning Stages of Hypothermia
Hypothermia can set in slowly in moderate temperatures. It is important to recognize when you are in danger or someone you are with is in real danger of hypothermia setting in. Some of the signs include the following:
- Shivering and exhaustion
- Confusion
- Slurred or slow speech
- A change in behavior including suddenly remaining quiet
- Sleepiness
As you learn to recognize these signs of hypothermia, you will be able to take measures to prevent death.
The best method to prevent hypothermia is preparation. Wearing the proper clothing in temperatures below 65 degrees can mean the difference in life and death. For more information on layering, visit our blog post here . To learn more about hypothermia from The National Parks Service, click here