Beat Decem”burr” blues outdoors!

Winter is almost here and the outdoor adventures are endless. PSU is very conveniently located near the White Mountains where there are many outdoor opportunities. Winter outdoor activities offer many personal benefits, but it is important to understand the risk involved and what participants can do to ensure their safety. Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, hiking, backpacking and camping are all good examples of winter activities. They offer personal benefits such as healthy exercise, boosting energy, enlivening the senses and have minimal environmental impact – all while appreciating nature. Life can get busy sometimes and this can be an opportunity to bond with family and friends. According to Wikihow.com, there are many suggestions for enhancing the winter outdoor experience. It is important to dress properly by avoiding cotton clothing. Cotton is responsible for trapping moisture against your skin. Cold air and moisture replaces the heat that is generated from your body with cold energy. It is recommended to use polypropylene or another synthetic material to keep the moisture away from your skin. It is also important to layer up by starting with soft layers and finish with a nylon material including Gore-tex that can hold up during wind and rain conditions. When temperatures changes it will be convenient for you to add or remove clothing to keep your body at a comfort temperature. A hat and gloves will help to keep your head and hands warm. Your body will start to close off circulation to your fingers and feet if your head starts to become cold. Before heading out for a day adventure, it is important to eat foods that are high in fat content and calories. Your body will generate heat when the fuel has been burned. On a cold day, warm foods and hot drinks will help heat your body. It is also recommended to drink extra liquids. When the temperature is below freezing, moisture will be drawn out of you from. It is harder to keep your body warm when you are dehydrated. Participating in these winter activities with a few other people with a plan put in place is a good idea. There should be a planned route, a schedule made and everyone should have skills using a map and a compass. Each member should be aware of everyone else’s abilities and the pace should be set by the slowest individual. If the pace is set fast, members will feel rushed and pushed beyond their limits and this could result in injuries. At least one first aid kit should be packed per group. Some of the items the first aid kit should include are bandages, sterile gauze, tape, blister treatments, disinfectant and gloves. These are only a few suggestions and will not guarantee a successful outdoor trip. It is important that you know your abilities and you are prepared for any type of environment. Make the best of this winter. Get outside and explore the great outdoors!