The Northern Lights

Adhering to established survival guidelines in winter environments is essential for safety and well-being. It is imperative to select appropriate attire, ensuring full-body coverage with layered clothing. Opt for garments made of 100% wool or merino wool for optimal insulation.

For the base layer, a synthetic material is recommended to maintain dryness and warmth, as wool's insulating properties diminish when wet. Avoid cotton at all costs due to its lack of insulating ability when damp, a condition often referred to as "cotton kills."

Key recommendations include:

1. Abstain from consuming snow, as it can lower your body temperature.
2. Minimize perspiration to retain warmth.
3. Utilize thermal clothing in layers. For further insights, refer to my blog post on employing a Personal Clothing and Equipment (PCU) system.

Be aware that tasks in cold conditions can require up to threefold the energy compared to normal circumstances. Therefore, it's crucial to plan meticulously and proceed with caution.

For winter survival, prioritise the following four essentials:

1. Shelter/Camp
2. Fire
3. Water
4. Food

In contrast, the survival priorities for summer conditions adjust slightly:

1. Shelter/Camp
2. Water
3. Fire
4. Food