Dress to Survive

Rafting on a Summer Afternoon

It all boils down to body temperature – 98.6 degrees, to be exact. A degree or two higher or lower and you’re in serious trouble.

Your first line of defense from the elements is what you wear. Don’t plan to build a fire or shelter as a way to offset inappropriate clothing!

Choose the right clothing for the right season in all conditions. Understand the concept of layering for optimum warmth and protection. The main difference in an emergency can be a night spent somewhat comfortably in warm clothing, although it’s likely an inconvenient delay, versus a serious medical condition that could kill you, called hypothermia.

Some parts of the country can heat up to 90 degrees at 4 p.m. and plunge to 40 degrees at 2 a.m. Even in warm, temperate regions, you can get chilled and hypothermic when you’re wet and the sun goes down. One of the states with the highest rate of hypothermia victims is Florida.

Start dressing correctly by knowing your fabrics, because each had advantages and disadvantages. Something as simple as reading a label on a garment can be incredibly important, and determine if the item will be dangerous or protect you.

Take alone extra clothing in a daypack, even when planning to be gone a few hours. Neck warmers, wool gloves and beanies are easy staples to always have in the pack with you. Thin fleece pullovers are great for extra layering. Lightweight rain jackets are easy to pack and provide a waterproof and windproof layer for unexpected weather.