52 AMERICAN SURVIVAL GUIDE [OCTOBER 2019]
When you’re on a remote expedition, you’re as strong as
the weakest link in your group. Yes, you might be feeling fine,
but what about that other guy in your group? Watch for the
“umbles” so you can take action to help someone who is going
into hypothermia.
Look first for shivering, and then look for the “umbles.” The
person fumbles — they are losing fine motor control in their
fingers. They can’t handle their keys, a knife or maybe a fire
starter. They stumble — they are losing blood to the feet and
losing control. Then they mumble — they are losing control of
the tongue. Soon, they grumble, saying they do not care. Then
you know they are losing overall control.
Treatthemforhypothermia!Getsomewarmcoveringsand
getthemtoa toastyfire.Makesomewarmdrinksorchocolate
andmakesuretheydrinkit.
Sometimesit’srainingorsnowingandyoucan’tgohome.Do
everythingyoucantohelptheweakestlinkofyourgroup.Keep
thatfiregoing,getandstaydryandkeepthewarmbeverages
orfoodflowing.RECOGNIZING
HYPOTHERMIA
AUTOMOBILE
Many remote emergencies occur because your car failed to start. Always carry blankets, food
and water in your car. Even if you have to stay in the woods with your car for a few days, you
should be comfortable and properly fed. You can make a fire to stay warm and to draw atten-
tion to your location.PLANNING
Yes, planning is paramount. Get a map of where you intend to go. Will rising rivers make it› Near right: Boy Scout
leader Francisco
Loaiza shows some
basic insulating
materials, such as
the emergency space
blanket he is holding,
and various tarps and
plastic bags.› Far right: A student
tries the Mylar
emergency space
blanket. This is
effective at retaining
body heat, keeping
covered areas dry and
blocking the wind.“FIELD RESEARCH HAS DEMONSTRATED
THAT WEARING LIGHTER LAYERS (RATHER
THAN ONE THICK COAT) IS MUCH MORE
PRACTICAL AND COMFORTABLE.”‹ Keith Farrar (left) shows Roman (middle) a rain poncho that is commercially available.