Survival Guide [3/8]: How to Stay Warm?

Understanding the Cold
To understand cold, it’s essential to grasp what it represents. Cold is not just a drop in temperature; it’s the absence of heat. Our body senses cold when we lose heat faster than we can produce it. This thermal loss can be accelerated by factors such as wind, humidity, and ambient temperature.

When exposed to cold, our body reacts instinctively. It starts by reducing blood flow to the skin and extremities (a process called vasoconstriction) to conserve body heat. At the same time, we begin to shiver, a natural response to generate heat through muscle contractions.

Hypothermia and frostbite are the primary risks associated with prolonged exposure to cold. Hypothermia occurs when body temperature drops below 35°C, leading to symptoms such as shivering, confusion, and a slow heart rate. Frostbite, on the other hand, is characterized by pale or bluish skin and numbness, typically affecting the fingers, toes, nose, and ears.

The feeling of cold is intensified by wind (wind chill) and humidity. Wet clothing can drastically reduce thermal insulation, accelerating heat loss. Additionally, intense physical activity can lead to sweating, which, in cold weather, can backfire by cooling the body rapidly once the activity stops.

Preparing for the cold requires understanding and respecting its dangers. Good physical condition can help resist the cold better. It is also important to mentally prepare, recognizing your body’s limits and being aware of the risks.

Fighting the Cold in Case of Shelter-In-Place
In the event of being confined at home due to extreme weather or other emergencies, power outages are common. It becomes vital to know techniques to maintain an adequate body temperature.

First, it’s essential to wear the right clothing. To optimize warmth, start with a moisture-wicking base layer, followed by an insulating layer to retain heat. Choose materials like wool or fleece for insulation. Avoid cotton, as it traps moisture and can cool you down.

Don’t forget thick socks, hats, and gloves, even indoors, since body heat is mainly lost through the head and extremities.

Second, food and hydration play an important role. Try not to neglect them. Consume hot drinks and calorie-rich foods to help your body generate heat. Soups, stews, and drinks like tea or hot chocolate are excellent choices.

To ensure you have supplies on hand, create a food reserve with long-lasting items such as freeze-dried meals with a 25-year shelf life. The variety of flavors, nutritional value, and quick preparation make them an ideal option.