Ice & Cold
Recognize the signs of hypothermia in a companion
Early hypothermia is treatable in the field. Late-stage hypothermia is a medical emergency — knowing the difference saves lives.
Step-by-step
Mild (95–90°F core): shivering, clumsy hands, slow decision-making, sometimes 'the umbles' — stumbles, mumbles, fumbles, grumbles.
Moderate (90–82°F core): shivering may stop, confusion increases, coordination collapses, speech slurs.
Severe (below 82°F core): no shivering, unresponsive or unconscious, weak pulse, very slow breathing.
For mild: stop, insulate, add calories and warm sweet drinks, get moving once rewarmed.
For moderate or severe: treat as a medical emergency, handle very gently, insulate against further heat loss, and evacuate. Rough handling can trigger cardiac arrest.
Warning: Never give alcohol to a hypothermic person. Never rub or immerse severely hypothermic patients in hot water — passive rewarming only until you reach medical care.
Related outdoor skills
Educational reference only. Wilderness conditions change fast — practice in low-stakes settings, take a certified wilderness first-aid course, and confirm regional regulations before you rely on any of these skills in the field.