Emergency equipment
You may be able to prevent cold exposure by having emergency equipment with you if you do outdoor sports or activities. Your equipment may include:
- 2 or 3 fire-starting kits and a cigarette lighter.
- A pocketknife.
- A wire saw, to cut large pieces of wood for an emergency fire.
- A space blanket, to be used as a windbreaker and heat reflector.
- Large plastic leaf bags, to wrap around you and over your backpack for quick rain and wind protection.
- Low-temperature electrician's tape, for general repairs to space blankets, clothing, tents, or boots.
- An Ensolite pad, to sit or sleep on.
- A headlamp, to allow you to use both of your hands. Remember extra bulbs and batteries.
- A map and compass.
- Extra clothing, drinking water, and food.
- Sunglasses and sunscreen.
- Snow shovel on trips where snow is expected.
- Signaling equipment, such as a whistle, mirror, flares, or a parachute cloth to float in the air.
- A first aid kit.
- A thermometer.
- Chemical hot packs.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: July 5, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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