COMBATING HYPOTHERMIA IN THE BACKCOUNTRY

Weather and temperature are forces of nature beyond our control, making preparation essential for anyone venturing into the backcountry. In these remote environments, it’s not uncommon to experience all four seasons in a single trip, facing rain, sunshine, wind, snow, and fluctuating temperatures. When exposed to extreme cold conditions the serious risk of hypothermia can occur. This is a life-threatening condition that happens when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it, causing a dangerous drop in core body temperature. For anyone venturing into the backcountry, the combination of harsh weather, cold temperatures, isolation, and physical exertion increases the chances of this threat. Understanding hypothermia and equipping yourself with the right knowledge and tools can make the difference between life and death. In this edition of Korth Group Outdoor Education, we will explore the science behind hypothermia, strategies to prevent it, but also methods to combat it should it arise in the field.

THE SCIENCE BEHIND HYPOTHERMIA
Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below 95°F (35°C), which impairs critical functions. The body loses heat through four mechanisms:

• Conduction - Direct contact with cold surfaces or water, which conducts heat 25 times faster than air.
• Convection - Wind stripping away insulating warm air.
• Radiation - Heat loss from exposed skin, especially the head.
• Evaporation - cooling from wet clothing or sweat.

At first, the body fights the cold by shivering to generate heat and narrowing blood vessels to conserve it, but extended exposure can overpower these natural defenses. Hypothermia progresses in stages:

• Mild (95°F–89°F) - Shivering, rapid breathing, and confusion
• Moderate (89°F–82°F) - Violent shivering, slurred speech, and poor coordination
• Severe (below 82°F) - Shivering stops, heart rate slows, and consciousness fades, potentially leading to death.

PREVENTING HYPOTHERMIA
To prevent hypothermia, it is best to dress in layers designed for insulation and protection. The layers should be structured in a way so you have first a moisture-wicking base layer. The best material for this would be something like merino wool or a synthetic material. The second layer should be an insulating middle layer, like fleece or down. The top layer should be something that is both waterproof and windproof. It is advised to avoid materials like cotton for a base layer, as it retains moisture and accelerates cooling. Stay dry by keeping rain gear and waterproof gloves on hand and change wet clothing immediately.
 
Proper clothing layers are most important but what you do to your body to maintain energy and hydration should come second on the priority list. You can do this by consuming high-calorie foods like nuts, that are high in good fats, and jerky which will provide adequate protein. Drinking warm fluids will help support metabolic heat production. It is always important to carry lightweight emergency gear, such as a bivy sack, tarp, or space blanket, should you need to provide shelter and insulation in deteriorating conditions. Following these guidelines will allow you to shield against hypothermia from setting in. 

COMBATING HYPOTHERMIA
Should hypothermia set in, there are multiple ways to combat it. Some methods can be accomplished based on the equipment one has with them but there are also natural methods when gear is limited.
 
Get Out of the Elements
The first priority is to find or create shelter to protect against wind and precipitation. Natural features like rock overhangs, dense tree cover, or caves can provide immediate relief. Line the ground with insulating materials such as pine boughs, dry leaves, or grass to reduce heat loss through conduction.
 
Change and Insulate
If you find that clothing is wet, remove it promptly and replace it with dry layers. If dry clothing is unavailable, wrap the person in a space blanket, sleeping bag, or tarp. Enhance insulation by stuffing dry leaves, grass, or spare clothing into the layers to trap heat effectively.
 
Generate Heat Safely
Provide warm, high-energy foods and drinks to help the body generate heat if the person is conscious and able to eat. Avoid alcohol or caffeine, which can impair heat regulation. Build a fire if possible, and use reflective surfaces like emergency blankets or aluminum foil to focus heat toward the individual. If able to do so, building a fire is a given to provide a natural external heat source that can warm the body.
 
Use Natural Surroundings
When gear is limited, the environment offers valuable resources. Dry grass, moss, and leaves can serve as makeshift insulation when stuffed into clothing. Collect dry wood from sheltered areas for fire-building, using pine resin as an effective fire starter. Utilize fallen trees, overhangs, or caves to create makeshift shelters to block wind and precipitation.
 
Monitor and Evacuate
Hypothermia can have delayed effects, even if the person seems to recover. Continuously monitor their condition for signs of deterioration and evacuate them to medical care as soon as possible.

Hypothermia is a silent and deadly threat to anyone in the backcountry that is subject to cold temperatures without taking the necessary precautions, but it is preventable with proper preparation and awareness. By understanding how the body responds to cold, equipping oneself with the right gear, and leveraging natural elements in the environment, one can safely navigate harsh conditions. Ultimately, vigilance and quick action are the keys to avoiding tragedy and ensuring a successful return from the wilderness.