All Kinds of News for January 11, 2017

BlueFire Wilderness Therapy, a leading wilderness therapy program for teens ages 11-17, offers insight into staying safe and warm in the outdoors during the winter months.  BlueFire’s expert staff, having worked with clients for many years, have an extensive knowledge of preparing for winter wilderness adventures.  BlueFire provides practical advice for individuals interested in outdoor activities, such as hiking and mountaineering, during the winter months. According to BlueFire, individuals should:

• Wear layers of clothing for outdoor outings: Individuals should wear three separate layers. The base layer, which is worn closest to the skin, regulates body temperature and moves sweat away from the skin. The second layer, known as the insulation layer, helps retain heat by trapping it close to the body. The third layer, called the shell layer, provides protection from the weather. Clothing should not be too tight or too loose in order to prevent injury.
• Take precautions before camping outdoors: Before individuals go camping, they should be aware of the weather forecast. They should have all of the materials necessary to make a fire and enough food to last in case of an emergency. The shelter they have brought with them should be designed to help them stay dry in case of snow or rain.
• Prepare for travel: Whether by car or foot, when an individual is preparing to travel they should fuel up. It’s also important to have an empty bladder in case there are no restrooms. Before heading out, an individual should set a course of action and identify emergency shelter options. Individuals shouldn’t be afraid to backtrack or cancel their plans in case conditions change.