How to manage cold and heat in emergency situations
❄️☀️ Why manage cold and heat efficiently?
In emergency situations, prolonged exposure to extreme cold or heat can quickly become dangerous. Effective management of these conditions guarantees your safety and preserves your strength.
❄️ Efficient cold management
1. Protect yourself with your Evakit
Your Evakit bag already contains:
– A thermal survival blanket: ideal for preventing hypothermia by retaining your body heat.
– A Mylar emergency sleeping bag: designed to provide extra insulation from the cold and effectively retain your body heat.
– A hat to limit significant body heat loss through the head. A bonnet to limit significant body heat loss through the head.
– A pair of gloves to limit significant body heat loss through the hands.
– Heaters: place them in your pockets, shoes or under clothing to maintain a good body temperature. A simple press is all it takes to trigger a (harmless) chemical reaction that releases heat for up to 6 hours.
2. Build a campfire (situation permitting)
– Use the lighter and a bit of rope included in your Evakit to start a fire quickly and easily.
– Choose a safe location, away from flammable materials or hazardous areas.
3. Wear appropriate clothing
– Multiply thin layers to optimize thermal insulation.
– Cover body extremities (head, hands, feet) to minimize heat loss.
4. Stay hydrated and nourished
– Drink small amounts of water regularly to avoid dehydration.
– Eat the survival rations included in your Evakit regularly to maintain your energy levels.
☀️ Efficient heat management
1. Protect yourself from the sun and heat
– Wear light, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
– Make sure you cover your head and protect your eyes
– Use the SPF 50+ sun cream supplied with your EVAKIT, don’t underestimate the dangers of the sun.
2. Moisturize constantly
– Drink small sips of water regularly to prevent dehydration.
– Never wait until you’re thirsty to drink, drink preventively.
3. Look for cool, shady spots
– Look for a shady spot where you can rest regularly.
– Avoid travelling during the hottest part of the day (between 12pm and 4pm).
4. Refresh your body efficiently
– Moisten your skin regularly, especially your wrists, neck and face, to promote cooling.
– If possible, rest in a cool, well-ventilated place.
Common mistakes to avoid
– Neglecting to protect your extremities in the cold.
– Ignoring the importance of protection from direct sunlight in the heat.
– Underestimating the importance of regular hydration.
– Clumsily using or neglecting the equipment provided (survival blanket, heaters, hat, sun protection).
IN SUMMARY:
To cope effectively with the cold or heat, make the most of your Evakit (thermal blanket, emergency sleeping bag, heaters, lighter). Adapt your clothing, stay well hydrated and nourished, and systematically protect yourself by following these essential tips.
Your safety depends directly on your ability to manage cold and heat effectively.
