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Beyond Building a Fire - Overlooked Winter Survival Skills 

Active Military
Active Military
Camping
Camping
Survivalism
Survivalism
February 1, 2025
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Winter's beauty, much like a fluffy mountain cat or that woman you met off post, can be deceptive. While glistening snow and frosty landscapes hold a certain allure, the reality of surviving in a winter environment is far more challenging than many realize. Beyond the well-known basics like building a fire and finding shelter (which some still don’t know how to do), there are crucial, often overlooked skills that can significantly increase your chances of survival when the mercury plummets.

 

Why These Skills Matter

In a winter survival situation, every decision counts. Hypothermia, frostbite, and dehydration are constant threats, and the margin for error is slim. Mastering these often-neglected skills can be the difference between life and death. Due to the nature of the conflicts the US has been involved in over the last two decades, hot weather environments are often the focus of training, which leaves some of the colder regions to appear as less of a threat. Nothing could be further from the truth. Just the act of shivering burns calories, and you can only keep moving for so long.

 

Do You Know De Way - Not All Snow is Created Equal

Snow is more than just frozen water. It's a dynamic element with varying properties that can be used to your advantage or pose significant dangers. Learn to differentiate between powdery snow, wet snow, and compacted snow. Each has different insulation properties, water content, and suitability for building shelters or melting for drinking water. Recognize the signs of unstable snowpack and potential avalanche terrain. Understanding how wind, temperature, and slope angle affect snow stability is crucial for safe travel in mountainous or changing regions. Learn how to construct a snow cave or quinzee. These shelters can provide surprisingly effective insulation and protection from the elements.

 

Becoming an Ogre – How to Add Layers

Proper layering is essential for regulating body temperature and preventing both hypothermia and excessive sweating. Choose moisture-wicking materials like wool or synthetic fabrics to draw sweat away from your skin. Avoid cotton, which absorbs moisture and can lead to chilling. Use fleece, down, or wool to trap warm air close to your body. A waterproof and windproof shell is crucial for protection from the elements. Adjust your layers throughout the day based on your activity level and changing weather conditions.

This is not the area in which to buy cheap products, even if you don’t spend much time in the cold between work and home. Having solid options doesn’t require a lot of money but does require it to be spent wisely. Make sure items fit, their water or wind proofing is tested, and try not to wear more than you need on your person. If you sweat through all the layers early, they won’t be as useful when the temperature drops, or your movement slows.

 

Slow is Smooth - Conserving Energy in the Cold

Moving through snow and ice requires more energy than walking on solid ground. Conserving energy is vital for long-term survival. Avoid deep snowdrifts where you might become stuck, especially from ‘post-holing’, or having one leg sink deeply and become stuck from vacuum. If you must travel through deep snow, use snowshoes or skis (or something similar) to distribute your weight. Exercise extreme caution on icy surfaces. Use trekking poles or ice cleats for added stability. Learn techniques for self-arrest if you fall on an icy slope. Maintain a steady pace and avoid overexertion. Take frequent breaks to rest and refuel.

 

Hydration in a Frozen World - Finding and Melting Water

Dehydration is a serious risk in winter, as the dry air and physical exertion can lead to significant fluid loss. Learn to recognize potential water sources like melted snow patches, frozen streams, or icicles. Avoid yellow snow, which is contaminated with urine; this is more than just a dad’s least favorite joke. Melt snow in a container over a fire or stove, or even using some other heat source, but do not eat it. The energy used for your body to warm the substance to a liquid cancels out any benefit it would provide. Add a small amount of water to the container first to prevent scorching. Never eat snow directly, as it can lower your body temperature. Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty, as dehydration can impair judgment and increase the risk of hypothermia.

 

Signaling for Rescue - Making Yourself Visible

In a survival situation, signaling for help is crucial. Use bright clothing, mirrors, or signal fires to attract attention, or even that VS-17 panel you liberated before you got out of the service. Create contrasting patterns in the snow or use branches to form large SOS signals. Carry a whistle or use other means to create loud noises that can be heard from a distance, while not burning excess energy and damaging your throat with yelling. If available, use a cell phone, satellite phone, or personal locator beacon (PLB) to send distress signals.

Remember your environment. If raising a loud alarm could alert predators, use several visual signals that lead to a safe location you can retreat to. If helicopters or other loud vehicles are nearby, don’t try to shout over it, rather concentrate on using movement to differentiate yourself against the stillness of the landscape.

 

 

Your go bag should be checked and stocked frequently, so adding more appropriate clothing should become part of that check. Warming layers, heating pellets, and water sources in your vehicle should be maintained. Last but not least, do not go to sleep. Much like a concussion, staying awake will increase your chance of making it until rescue.

Winter survival is about more than just staying warm. By mastering these often-overlooked skills, you can significantly increase your chances of survival and navigate the challenges of a winter environment with confidence. Remember, preparation and knowledge are your greatest assets when facing the unforgiving forces of nature.

 

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