Hypothermia signs while camping and what to do first

Hypothermia is when your body loses heat faster than it makes it. Early signs are shivering, cold hands, clumsiness and mumbling. Get out of the wind and wet, add dry layers, insulate from the ground and get medical help if signs are strong. This page is general information, so follow the advice of health authorities such as the CDC and trained responders.

Signs to watch

Early signs often include:

• Shivering
• Cold, numb hands and feet
• Clumsy movement, dropping things
• Tiredness and a flat mood

Stronger signs include:

• Shivering that stops while the person is still cold
• Slurred speech
• Confusion or odd choices
• Very sleepy or hard to wake

The person with hypothermia may not see it in themselves. Watch each other, especially kids and older people.

What to do first

1. Stop and get out of the wind and rain. A tent, a car or a dense stand of trees is better than open ground.
2. Remove wet clothes and put on dry layers, a hat and gloves.
3. Insulate from the ground with a pad or a backpack.
4. Give warm, sweet drinks if the person is awake and can swallow. Avoid alcohol.
5. Warm the body core, such as the chest and armpits, with a warm bag or another person.

Call for help if signs are strong. Use the local emergency number. Do not rub the skin hard, and move the person gently.

The exception

Hypothermia can happen above freezing. Wet clothes, wind and a long time outside are enough. It can happen in spring or autumn, not just in deep winter.

Prevent it

Wear layers that stay dry, eat and drink well, and rest before you are exhausted. Check the forecast. How to stay warm in a tent in winter covers the plan, and sleeping bag temperature rating explained helps you pick a bag. Tell someone your plan and return time.