{"id":1944,"date":"2022-03-08T14:20:58","date_gmt":"2022-03-08T20:20:58","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/wp.stolaf.edu\/publicsafety\/?page_id=1944"},"modified":"2023-06-07T08:33:21","modified_gmt":"2023-06-07T13:33:21","slug":"dressing-for-cold-weather","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/wp.stolaf.edu\/publicsafety\/dressing-for-cold-weather\/","title":{"rendered":"Dressing for Cold Weather"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"\"<\/a>
Click image to download and print<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Every year, nearly 1,000 people die due to hypothermia.\u00a0 Working and just moving about in cold environments requires people to be aware of the risk of hypothermia and frostbite, and to understand\u00a0the dangers of low windchills<\/a>.\u00a0 Understanding how to protect the body from excessive exposure in cold conditions is crucial.\u00a0 The ambient temperature and duration of exposure to cold are keys in determining the level of risk from exposure.\u00a0 This risk can be reduced by following the guidelines below:<\/p>\n

LAYERING<\/h6>\n

Proper layering using light-weight and comfortable fabrics that trap\u00a0the air warmed by the body, while allowing moisture vapor from perspiration to be conducted away from the skin.<\/p>\n

WICKING<\/h6>\n

The first layer for cold weather exposure should keep you warm and dry.\u00a0 The best materials for long underwear are those that \u201cwick\u201d wetness away from the skin quickly and effectively.\u00a0 Synthetic fibers dry quickly and pull perspiration vapor away from the skin toward the insulation layer where it can evaporate.<\/p>\n

INSULATION<\/h6>\n

Warmth and dryness are crucial factors.\u00a0 Insulating layers may need to be added if the activity level tapers\u00a0off.\u00a0 The best insulators (wool, goose down) will trap warm air but still provide ventilation.\u00a0 Clothing should be comfortable and light-weight, durable, and windproof.<\/p>\n

THE SHELL<\/h6>\n

Outerwear should be appropriate for the activity.\u00a0 Jackets and pants must allow perspiration vapor to vent while blocking wind and rain.\u00a0 The material must reduce heat loss and assist the rest of the layers in providing dryness and comfort.<\/p>\n

COVERING YOUR HEAD, HANDS, AND FEET<\/h6>\n

In addition to layering, it is very important that the head, hands, and feet are protected from the damp and cold.<\/p>\n