WINTER SURVIVAL Handbook

Montana’s Take-Along WINTER SURVIVAL Handbook

Disaster & Emergency Services Division & Montana Department of Transportation MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 1 Fifth Edition ¤ 2701 Prospect Ave PO Box 201001 Helena MT 59620-1001 April 2002 Montana Department of Transportation Disaster & Emergency Services Affairs A Division of the Department of Military 1900 Williams St PO Box 4789 Helena MT 59604-4789 Co-Sponsored By: Written by Larry Akers, Emergency Management Specialist Written MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG MONTANA’S SURVIVAL WINTER HANDBOOK 2 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 3 ...... 8 ...... 41 ...... 20 ...... 30 ...... 18 ...... 20 ...... 22 ...... 17 ...... 13 ...... 16 ...... 21 ...... 6 ...... 40 ...... 23 ...... 11 ...... 31 ...... 9 ...... 24 ...... 33 ...... 12 ...... 39 ...... 32 ...... 37 ...... 5 ...... 27 ...... 7 ...... 22 ...... 42 For more copies of this book, contact your county Disaster and Emergency Services Office (listed in the government section of your telephone book) or call 800/714/7296. Hazardous Materials Incident Tips Notes Protection for Livestock Survival for Outdoor Activities Survival NOAA Weather Radio NOAA Weather Starting a Cold Car Winter Driving Techniques & Traction All About Tires Trips Before Your Other Tips Kit Survival Automobile Winter Automobile Parts Can Save Lives Car in Your You If a Storm Traps Light Up in an Emergency Towing Buddy Leave Your Don’t Kit Backpack Survival Hypothermia Protection for Pets Introduction Driving Hazards Montana Reports of Transportation Montana Department Table of Contents of Table Warnings of a Friend Care Taking Avalanche for the Home Winter Safety Tips Wind Chill Index Injuries Cold Weather Dress to Fit the Season 4 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 5 It is with a great deal of pride that the Montana Division of Disaster and Emer- It is with a great deal of pride that the Montana this hand- present of Transportation gency Services and the Montana Department book. Ride along as we take you safely down the highway on a winter journey. Enjoy a on a winter journey. highway Ride along as we take you safely down the breathtaking landscape, confident you have snowy outing through Montana’s give you some tips on weathering a the gear to weather any storm. Allow us to caring for pets and one of Montana’s storm at home, and some thoughts about greatest economic assets, her livestock. Do you know how to make a shelter with a jackknife and piece of string? Do you know how to make a shelter with Each winter hundreds of thousands of Montana residents and visitors of thousands of Montana residents and Each winter hundreds take to any- available in pursuit of the most fantastic hunting our winter wonderland With the ad- and cross country trails are second to none. where. Our ski resorts vehicle, remote areas are now only a vent of the snowmobile and the all-terrain be a very But, when all this modern technology fails, it may short time away. out. long walk Did you know that a hubcap can save your life? Did you know that a The residents of Montana are great outdoors people, whether it’s for work or for for work whether it’s outdoors people, of Montana are great The residents do a great deal of the size of The Big Sky State, Montanans pleasure. Because of of this booklet is A large portion of their work and play. traveling in the pursuit stranded. to safe winter driving and what to do if devoted to tips related Introduction that can information is to provide basic survival of this publication The intent save lives. 6 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ aware of. very thingsthatdrawpeopletoMontanaposedrivinghazardsyouneedbe Montana hasoneofthehighesthighway fatalityratesinthenation.Someof Montana DrivingHazards stalled vehicle,orotherobjectsinyourpath. for reducedvisibilityandtheveryrealpossibilityofencountering an animal,a Realize yourheadlightslimitsightdistance.Adjustspeedtoaccount Night-time crashratesaremuchhigherthanthosethatoccurduringtheday. to cover. morning andlateafternooneveningwhenanimalsaremovingfromforage dreds ofcollisionswithanimalsoccureachyear. They’remostcommon inearly The wildlifethatdrawssomanyvisitorsposesaformidableroadhazard.Hun- Severe weatherandroadconditionscanhappeninanymonthoftheyear. Twenty tofortypercentofallcrashesoccurundericyorsnowyconditions. designated driver. Take abreak,whetheratcommunityorrestarea.Ifyoudrink,havesober crashes. Distancesbetweentownscanbelongandtravelmonotonous. In 1998alone,over500driversfellasleepatthewheelandwereinvolvedin hitting something. Most fatalcrashes mandatory thatallpassengers useseatbelts. According toMontana StateLaw,itisnow tion number!) This isNOTaroadreport orgeneralinforma- 800/525-5555 (Montana HighwayPatrol. To reportdrunk,erraticorunsafedriverscall nated driver. If youdrink,pleasedonotdrive,useadesig- For allemergencies,dial911(statewide)! involveasinglevehicleleavingtheroadandoverturningor MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 7 Weather conditions are ex- Weather

Severe winter weather condi-

: Severe winter weather conditions A snowfall of at least six inches in Sustained winds of at least 40 miles winds of at Sustained These two terms cause more confusion These two terms cause Considerable falling and/or blowing snow than all the rest. A watch simply means that weather conditions are favorable simply than all the rest. A watch here, part- means, “It’s A warning or whatever. for a storm, blizzard, tornado ner.” WINTER STORM WATCH: or heavy snow). tions may affect your area (freezing rain, sleet, WINTER STORM WARNING are imminent. HEAVY SNOW WARNING: (Heavy snow can mean lesser 12 hours or eight inches in 24 hours is expected. amounts where winter storms are infrequent.) BLIZZARD WARNING: are expected for several hours. and sustained winds of at least 35 miles per hour of fine powdery particles which Most of the snow in a blizzard is in the form times visibility is only a few feet. are whipped in such great quantities that at HIGH WIND WARNING: are expected to last for one hour. per hour or gusts of at least 50 miles per hour and along the Valley Yellowstone These thresholds are higher for the upper eastern front of the Rockies. WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY: pected to cause significant inconveniences and may be hazardous. If caution is exercised, these situations should not become life threatening. WATCH vs. WARNING: WATCH vs. WARNING: ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Warnings threat- can also be life Montana so beautiful wonderland that makes The winter winds rain and high snows, ice storms, freezing blizzards, heavy ening. Winter One of the best or play. whether at work hazard to our citizens, can be a serious observing storm warnings, understanding and to keep informed. By defenses is weather preparations to lessen the impact of hazardous we can make adequate of weather take full advantage pets, and livestock. To on ourselves, our property, used: meaning of the terms commonly forecasts, know the specific 8 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK http://nimbo.wrh.noaa.gov/wrhq/nwspage.html For accesstoanyNWShomepageintheUnitedStates NWS Missoula Missoula Kalispell Helena NWS GreatFallshttp://www.wrh.noaa.gov/greatfalls/ Great Falls http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/Glasgow/ NWS Glasgow Glasgow NWS Billingshttp://www.wrh.noaa.gov/billings/ National WeatherServices(NWS) Billings FOR CURRENTWEATHERINFORMATION NWS GreatFalls isua721-3939 755-4829 443-5151 http://nimbo.wrh.noaa.gov/wrhq/nwspage.html For accesstoanyNWShomepageintheUnitedStates NWS Missoula Missoula Kalispell Helena ...... 443-5151 ...... 652-1916 ...... 721-3939 ...... 755-4829 ...... 228-4042 ...... 453-5469 ...... http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/missoula// http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/missoula// http://www.wrh.noaa.gov/greatfalls/ 453-5469 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 9 transmission site. heard as far as 40 miles from the heard as far as 40 miles dio broadcasts can usually be dio broadcasts can transmissions. NOAA Weather Ra- Weather transmissions. NOAA ...... 3 ...... 3 ...... 1 ...... 2 ...... 4 The following NOAA weather frequencies are The following NOAA weather MHz, 2-162.400 used in Montana (1-162.550 MHz, 5- MHz, 3-162.475 MHz, 4-162.450 162.500 MHz: Billings ...... 1 Butte ...... 1 Conrad ...... 5 Glasgow ...... 2 Glendive ...... 3 Great Falls Havre ...... 2 Helena ...... 2 Kalispell ...... 1 Malta ...... 3 Miles City Missoula ...... 2 Plentywood Scobey Sheridan, WY In Montana, there will soon be twenty-three stations. In Montana, there will soon NOAA Weather Radio provides continuous broadcasts of the latest weather in- Radio provides continuous broadcasts NOAA Weather Service Offices and these broad- the National Weather formation directly from manufacturers your specific area. A number of commercial casts are tailored for high frequency designed specifically for receiving NOAA’s offer weather radios NOAA Weather Radio Weather NOAA However, of weather data. are all good sources radio and television Newspaper, You go to the source itself. timely information, most accurate and the if you want Oce- of the National to pick up broadcasts a weather radio designed can listen to (NOAA). Administration anic and Atmospheric 10 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK Commercial/Public RadioStations ar OMA 610 88.5 1230 CARROLLRADIO KOJM-AM 96.3 KHDN-AM KBAZ-FM Helena Havre Hardin 98.9 Hamilton 96.5 KAAK-FM 93.5 98.3 KDZN-FM KLAN-FM 101.3 1400 KBEV-FM Great Falls KDRG-AM KRYK-FM Glendive 92.5 Glasgow Dillon KAAR-FM Deer Lodge Chinook 1090 Butte KBOZ-AM Bozeman 103.7 640 960 KBBB-FM 96.7 580 KGVW-AM KFLN-AM KSCY-FM KANA-AM Billings Belgrade/Bozeman Belgrade Baker Anaconda CPA 1340 99.5 1240 95.1 KCAP-AM 92.5 KBLL-FM KBLL-AM 98.7 KXEI-FM 1240 KPQX-FM 1400 93.7 KXDR-FM 106.1 KLYQ-AM 1450 KXGF-AM 94.5 560 KTZZ-FM 92.9 KQDI-FM 88.9 KQDI-AM 1310 KMON-FM KMON-AM KLFM-FM 1400 590 KGFC-FM KEIN-AM 1240 KXGN-AM KGLE-AM 1490 96.5 KLTZ-AM KDBM-AM 1370 91.3 KQRV-FM 94.1 106.9 95.5 KXTL-AM 550 KUFM-FM KOPR-FM 99.9 KMSM-FM 97.5 KMBR-FM 95.1 KBOW-AM 1450 93.7 KZLO-FM KPKX-FM 1230 91.9 KMMS-FM 107.5 KMMS-AM KOBB-FM 93.3 KOBB -AM 730 KGLT-FM 96.3 KZRY 101.7 94.1 KYYA-FM KURL AM 1240 95.5 KRZM-FM 97.1 KRSQ-FM 98.5 KRKX-FM 790 KMZK-AM 91.7 KMHK-FM KKBR-FM 102.9 970 KGHL-FM 910 KGHL-AM KEMC-FM 105.1 107 KCTR-FM KBUL-AM KBLG-AM KBEX-FM 97.7 KXLB KGLM-FM ofPitKC-M1450 KVCK-AM 95.1 660 92.9 95.7 KTHC-FM KEYZ-AM Wolf Point KEZQ-FM 99.3 92.3 1150 KCGM-FM Williston, NorthDakota KMXE-FM KQRK-FM West Yellowstone KSEN-AM Sidney Shelby/Conrad/Cut Bank Scobey Ronan/Kalispell Red Lodge lisKL-M91.5 KPLG-FM KA Plentywood 89.9 Plains 770 KBGA-FM 100.1 1340 1250 KATL-AM 1230 KMMR-FM 1490 Missoula 95.9 KPRK-AM KIKC-AM KLCB-AM Miles City 95.9 KBSR-AM KLCM-FM Miles City/Forsyth Malta 880 Livingston KKMT-FM 97.1 Libby Lewistown KJJR-AM Laurel KALS-FM Kalispell Kalispell/Whitefish Kalispell VKF 92.7 96.1 KVCK-FM 102.9 920 KYYZ-FM 96.7 KWYS-FM KWYS-AM KZIN-FM 750 101.1 KERR-AM KATQ-FM ZQF 100.1 94.9 91.5 1340 89.1 KZOQ-FM KYSS-FM 102.5 930 KYLT-AM 1290 OR 1450 KUFM-FM 93.3 KMSO-FM KLCY-AM KGVO-AM 1050 92.5 KGRZ-AM KGGL-FM 101.3 KMTA-AM KKRY-FM KIKC-FM 101.7 1230 KTNY-FM 103.9 1180 KXLO-AM 600 KOFI-FM KOFI-AM 106.3 98.5 KGEZ-AM 101.1 KDBR-FM 103.1 KBBZ-FM 105.3 950 KZMT-FM 104.1 KVCM-FM KMTX-FM KMTX-AM KHKR-FM QA 1070 TQ-AM MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 11 Should These are not only for comfort but comfort These are not only for Check for leaks and crimped pipes; repair or re- Check for leaks and crimped pipes; repair Flush and protect the radiator and engine to well Flush and protect the Replace fuel and air filters before cold weather. Keep filters before cold weather. Replace fuel and air Check wear and fluid level. A brake which grabs on ice is a killer. Check wear and fluid level. A brake which grabs Front and rear should be checked for ser- Good tread is a must. Studded tires can be used in Montana from Good tread is a must. Studded tires can be Brakes: Oct. 1 until May 31. They are 218% better than conventional tires. Chains are Oct. 1 until May 31. They are 218% better than on Page 16). 630% better than conventional tires. (See chart for safety as well. Check and repair before cold weather. for safety as well. Check Fuel System: out of the system by using additives and by maintaining a full tank of water gas. Battery & Ignition System: Mi- be in top condition,with clean battery terminals. or old, nor deficiencies such as dirty battery terminals weather. worn parts will be greatly magnified in cold Lights: Exhaust System: and usually gives no Carbon monoxide poisoning is deadly place as necessary. warning. Tires: viceability. These are safety features for you as well as those around you. These are safety features viceability. below zero. Wipers: Heater, Defroster, Cooling System: ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Taking Care of a Friend Care Taking on your enemy, depending best friend or worst automobile can be your Your of their car or pickup, ignore the maintenance Many people totally preparations. sense good common breakdown. Following cause a very untimely which may to way schedule will go a long maintenance preventive and the manufacturer’s check list is in a stranded. Make sure everything on this prevent you from being year. good state of repair all 12 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK use thisproduct. Inadditiontothechanceof fire,theetherhasatendency to is veryvolatile. Itisbesttohaveafireextinguisher available ifyou attemptto Use extremecautionwithstarting fluid.Moststartingfluidscontainether, which verse order. tially chargethedeadbattery. Start thedeadcarandremovecablesinre- Run theengineoflivecaratfastidleforafewminutes,if possible,topar- greatly reducethechanceofsparksandaresultingexplosion. the negativecabletoagroundondeadcar(not post);thiswill first, thenhookthepositivecabletopostofdead car. Last,hook battery capsoffbothbatteries.Hookuptheboostercablesto thelivebattery Next, findsomeonewillingtohelpwithabatteryofthesamevoltage. Leavethe ruined andbooststartingwillnothelp.) Check yourbatteryfluidfirst.(Iftheisfrozen,chancesare If yourcarwon’t start andyoumustuseit,mayrequireabatteryboost. keep alittleofthecoldout. gine start-upwear. Evenleavingatroublelightonovernightunderthehoodcan late thewater. Theyalsokeeptheoilalittlewarmer, whichgreatlyreducesen- cold weatherstartingproblems.Engineblockheatersheatandsomeevencircu- engine andgoodfuel,heatisthebestsolutionfor thing todoyourcar. Inadditiontoawell-tuned Starting itatbelow-zerotemperaturesisaterrible Starting aColdCar you). excellent sourceofheatisanelectrichairdryer, (butdon’t letyourspousecatch work bestasapreventativemeasure.Try heatingthekeywithalighter. Another locks. Thereareanumberoflockthawproductsonthemarket,mostwhich the car. Freezingrainormoistureandasuddentemperaturedropcanfreeze aggravating problems.Sometimestheproblemscanstartwithtryingtogetinto Even withthebestmaintainedvehicle,winterconditionspresentavariety of Getting Going MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 13 Caution must be used, however, as too low of a gear can cause too much back as too low of a gear can cause Caution must be used, however, drag, which can also lock the pressure in the engine, resulting in too much drive wheels. If you have good snow tires and chains, most hills can be negotiated. Coming If you have good snow tires and chains, most gears. A lower gear the vehicle’s down a slippery hill requires judicious use of you do not have to use the can slow your momentum. This is good because of locking the wheels. brake as often and there will be less chance When attempting to pull out or while going up a slippery hill, use the highest When attempting to pull out or while going to the drive wheels resulting gear possible. This technique applies less power gun the motor! Once your wheels begin in less potential of wheel spin. Don’t to spin, you are in trouble. ~ For our discussion, we shall deal primarily with the conventional rear-wheel For our discussion, we shall deal primarily drive truck or passenger car. Today, the number of four-wheel drive vehicles is at an all-time high in Mon- drive vehicles is at an all-time high in the number of four-wheel Today, cars still top the vehicle registration two-wheel drive passenger tana. However, the mechanical salt-free environment of our state and lists. With the relatively automobiles are still on duty. genius of our people, many of the older rear-wheel greatly among 4X4, front-wheel drive and rear-wheel Driving characteristics vary this manual. drive vehicles and are beyond the scope of Winter Driving Techniques Winter Driving And now for a note about water in your fuel system. Water can enter the fuel can enter Water in your fuel system. a note about water And now for fuel you may purchase is also the possibility condensation. There system by is a prod- A solution to these problems water. been contaminated with which has between diesel and gas a difference deicer; note, there’s uct commonly called add a can to your fuel A good preventative measure is to periodically deicer. tank. wash the lubricant from the pistons, causing tremendous wear on the pistons wear tremendous causing the pistons, from the lubricant wash of an engine. walls and cylinder 14 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ and front-wheeldriveowners areover-confidentandthat’sand just plain danger approximately 6" X8"patchesofrubberslidingdown thehighway. Many4X4 with stoppingdistance.Lockthe wheelsofa4X4oniceandyoustillhavefour 4X4 andfront-wheeldrivevehicles. Pullingpowerhasabsolutelynothingtodo A misconception,whichmustbe clearedup,concernsstoppingdistancesof stopping distanceormaneuvering room. for thedriverorsituationthatisawreckabouttohappenandallow enough around you.Driveevenfurtherdowntheroadthannormal;thismeans, watch more importanttodrivedefensivelyandbeextraalertwhatis happening winter asthey doinsummer.matter what,willtrytodrivein Thus,itiseven more nervous,frustrated,tenseandperhapsevenaggressive.Some drivers,no Winter drivinghasadetrimentaleffectonsomedrivers.Itmay makethem more distancebetweenyouandotherdrivers. driving problems.Thissituationcallsforextremecaution,reduced speedsand Roads thatareintermittentlydryandicyposeveryinterestingdangerous opposite direction. you donothavemuchmarginforerrorinpassingormeetingcarsfromthe Winter roadway widthisusuallynarrowerduetosnowbuild-up.Inthiscase, ruts orsnowbuild-upunderyourcar. control inanotherdirection.Highcenteringyourvehiclecanalsoresultfrom steer outofit.Inanattempttoarut,youmaybethrown form inthesnowandicecauseproblems.Oncerut,itisdifficultto Winter drivingisdifferentfromsummerinotherrespects.Rutsmay through acrowdedintersection. have achoice.Anicesnowbankisbetterthanramminganothercarorsliding If thismethodfailsanditseemsyouaredestinedtohitsomething,may instead ofjustpushingthepedaltofloorandholdingitthere. ture. Ifyoudolosecontrol,trypumpingyourbrakeswithshort,repeatedpumps vehicles ontheroaddonothavethisfea- to preventwheellock-up.Most automatically pumpthebrakes brakes. Thesearedesignedto safety featurecalledanti-lock Many ofthenewautomobileshaveaningenious ous. MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 15 Helena that has every color paint on it to ever come out of Detroit. Helena that has every color paint on it to ever mean something. There is an icy bridge on the interstate just outside of mean something. There is an icy bridge on the Cruise control can become a killer on slick highways! With cruise control, the car cruise control, With highways! killer on slick become a control can Cruise fine speed. This works maintain a constant set or decelerates to either accelerates cruise control roads, the use of on icy or snowpacked However, on dry pavement. its power to maintain sense a need for increased The car may can cause accidents. you the same effect as if spot. This would have as you enter an icy set speed just a break of is almost always The result down on the accelerator. suddenly stepped and a dangerous loss of control. traction of the drive wheels there are a few things mode) you go into the survival If you do get stuck (before hard to keep your It’s DON’T OVER EXERT! remember, Above all you can try. while you are undergoing a heart attack. mind on getting unstuck out of your and behind your wheels. Get the sandbag First, clear a path in front you have just cleared. kit and spread sand or gravel on the path automobile survival wheel, branches cut with the ax in try a floormat under the If you forgot the sand, of to put under the or just about any other thing you can think kit your survival wheels to give traction. until the car just begins to forward Now try “rocking” yourself out. Accelerate until the tires begin to break trac- lose traction, then quickly move into reverse ground each time and should gain a little You tion, then back the other way. this technique with either a stan- eventually break free. A good driver can master is timing between engine RPM and dard or automatic transmission; the trick here rip the universal joint out. gear changes so you don’t emergency brake partially applied; Another idea is to gently accelerate with the traction quite as quickly. this may prevent the drive wheels from losing yeah, most people have heard that Bridge surfaces freeze before roads do. Yeah, it no longer means anything. How- so much and have seen the signs so often that at 65 mph thinking how cool you look when traveling down the highway ever, hit one of these iced up bridges, it’ll passing everyone in the slow lane, and you ~ ~ ~ 16 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK and morepredictablestopping. wheel drivepassengercars.Therationalehereisimprovedsteering, handling Some driversprefertorunstuddedorsnowtiresonallfourwheels ontheirtwo while reinforcedtirechainsdevelopedaboutseventimesthepull ofregulartires. compared withregulartires.Studdedtiresdevelopedaboutthree timesthepull, conventional snowtiresprovidedonlyasmallimprovementin pullingabilityas cil onaglare-icecourseatSteven’s Point,Wisconsin.Thesetestsdisclosedthat Safety Coun- This chartsummarizesthetestresultsconductedbyNational and theconventionalsnowtireonfollowingchart: probably fallssomewherebetweentheregularcategory either tireitwas intendedtoreplace.Theall-seasontread most compromises,theall-seasonreallyisn’t asgood have sortofacompromisecalledanall-seasontire.Like when wehadasummertireandwintertire;now advertising claimsjustaddtoourconfusion.Time was the literatureisprovidedbytirecompaniesandtheir any otherpartoftheautomobile.Theproblemismost Probably morehasbeenwrittenonthesubjectoftiresthan All AboutTires&Traction Montana from Oct.1untilMay31. Studded tiresareonly legalin A WORDOFCAUTION MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 17 If at all possible, travel in a convoy with someone else; there is safety in num- If at all possible, travel in a convoy with someone bers. information; road conditions can As you drive, listen to weather and travel change mighty fast. do not forget the heater and As part of your pre-winter cooling system check, These are safety items as well as comfort items. defroster. keep a full tank of fuel. Stop often and fill up, especially if heading Always are less likely to into sparsely populated country, like most of Montana. You become stranded with a full tank. If you do become stuck, you will have enough Let someone know when you are leaving. Advise them of the route you are Let someone know when you are leaving. like filing a flight destination. It’s taking and when you expect to arrive at your plan for your automobile trip. No matter what tire you use, you’ll have better luck if you take it easy. Don’t it easy. if you take better luck you’ll have tire you use, what No matter snow to ice or digs friction, which turns spinning just causes spin your tires; power gently. so apply you in deeper, winter driving. When levels for normal pressure at recommended Keep the tire this puts more tread on of the pulling tires; some pressure out stuck, try letting to normal help. If you deflate for traction, re-inflate the road and can really pressure as soon as possible. right it can adding extra weight in the trunk. If done The jury is still out on not car, negative side is the possibility of an ill-handling increase traction. The overdo mileage. If you do decide to add weight, don’t to mention decreased gas as possible. is as close to being over the drive wheels it. Make sure the weight is coun- the trunk of a front wheel drive vehicle Obviously, weight in terproductive. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Okay, so you’ve listened to the weather forecasts, checked the road reports, Okay, so you’ve listened to the weather kit. and developed a survival performed your before-operations maintenance There are a few more things you should Now you are ready to go, right? Wrong! consider: Other Tips Before Your Trips Other Tips Before Your ~ ~ ~ 18 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK ~ ~ ~ ~ Automobile WinterSurvivalKit ~ ~ ~ ~ Flashlight andextrabatteries,good forsignalinghelp. from asinglecandlecanprevent freezing). Matches andcandles(ablanket over yourhead,bodyheatandthe Three-pound coffeecan,whichcanbeusedtoheatwater. mobile. One sleepingbagortwomoreblanketsforeverypersoninthe auto- immediately. Don’t tryforthenexttown. If winterstormconditionsexceedoreventestyourability,seekrefuge hood ofbecomingstranded. Winter traveloninterstatesorothermajorhighways willlessenthelikeli- taillights. visibility fromastorm,youwant someonebehindyoutoseeyourbrakeand ally thatyouarenotaware ofthelossillumination.Withreduced and beseen.Your headlightscanbecomecoveredbysnowordirtsogradu- Make sureyourheadlights,taillightsandwindowsarecleansoyoucansee cause hardstarting. weight oilscongealmoreatlowtemperatures,donotlubricateaswelland Make suretheoilisofalightweightormulti-weightviscosity. Heavier will minimizecondensationinthetank. fuel toruntheengineandheater. Also,keepingthetankasfullpossible Winter travel,especiallybypassengercar, isserious business. You shouldalways carryasurvival kit. Your kit canbeasextensiveyouwant, butyou should include thoseitemswhichwouldallowyoutosur- vive 12–24hourswithoutthebenefitofcarheater. A recommendedlistmightinclude: MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 19 Winter clothing such as, cap, mittens, heavy socks, gloves, coveralls, etc, gloves, heavy socks, mittens, such as, cap, clothing Winter worn). items no longer items can be old or out-of-style (all of these and your travelers. medications for you including any special First-aid kit, in the con- allow expansion room will probably freeze, so It Bottled water. tainer. nuts, raisins, sugar cubes, packaged condensed High-energy foods; candy, bouillon cubes; no perishables. soups and hot chocolate, traction. which is good for litter, Small sack of sand or kitty snow, blade is preferable. Use caution in shoveling Shovel. One with a flat situation. advisable in a survival as overexertion is not tape and pliers, screwdrivers, adjustable wrench, Basic tool kit, to include wire. purpose as well as for Paper towels or toilet tissue, good for their designed fire starter. good for cutting wood for fire or branches to place under stuck Axe or saw, tires for traction. chain or strap. Also, a come-along is a handy device to recover your Tow own vehicle. Spare tire. One with air works best. including automotive re- Wire and rope, which have a multitude of uses, pair. booster cables. Starter fluid, extra oil, gas line deicer and battery can be seen for miles. A Signaling devices, such as railroad flares, which hunter orange or other bright distress flag can be made from a piece of “automobile parts can save colored material. Learn more in the following lives” section. forget your cell phone. Don’t NOTE: Many of the items on this list can be stored in the can. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 20 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ parts togooduse: ation anddismantlingofyourvehiclecansavelife.Puttheseautomotive Even ifyoudidnotcompleteyoursurvival kit,acalmheadandsystematicevalu- Automobile PartsCanSaveLives so sparingly and remember to open a window toprotect so sparinglyand remembertoopenawindow yourself fromcarbon help isinsight.Ifyouruntheengineto keepwarm,building verycloseor do The numberoneruleisSTAY INTHECAR!Unlessthereisahouseorother antenna. ThenSTAY INTHECAR! Andwait forhelp! signals, raisingthehoodonyour carandtyingsomethingbrighttoyourradio chance youoverlookedthatpartofthisbooklet,tryflashing yourdirectional are introuble.Rememberthesignalingdevicesyoursurvival kit.Ifbysome then doitslowlyandcarefully. Ifyouareonawell-traveledroad,indicate DON’T PANIC. Thinktheproblemthrough,decidebestthingtodo,and Keep calmifyougetintrouble.Ifyourcarbecomesstuckor you becomelost, If aStormTrapsYouinYourCar and usegasoline,oil,oranyothermeanstoigniteit. For warmth airpressure, andsignal,burnatire.(Notonthecar!)Release vice. A rearviewmirrorcanberemovedandwillserveasanexcellentsignalingde- blasts, tensecondsapart,every30minutes,isastandarddistresssignal.) Don’t forgetyourhorn.Itcanbeheardasfaramiledownwind.(Threelong wire andtissueorrag. the fire,primewithalittlegasolinewhichyoucangetfromyourtank formiles.ToEngine oilburnedinahubcapcreatessmokesignalvisible start Floormats canbeusedtoshutoutthewindorforawraparound. Seat coverscanbeusedasablanket. Ahubcaporsunvisorcanbesubstitutedforashovel. MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 21 Exercise, clap your hands, move your arms and legs vigorously or do other your arms and legs your hands, move Exercise, clap know to keep the circulation going. isometric exercises you go than one person. If you are alone do not if there is more turns on watch Take AWAKE! to sleep. STAY into the air, If there is a firearm along, shoot three shots Remember your horn. is a univer- and 30 minutes between volleys. (This 10 seconds between shots code among hunters and other outdoors people.) sally recognized distress Check the exhaust pipe of your car to ensure snow has not blocked it. If this to ensure snow has exhaust pipe of your car Check the compartment. monoxide in the interior will surely get carbon happens, you Warning devices must be placed appropriately according to the type of road and Warning Place triangles should go behind the car. flow of traffic. On divided highways, Triangle reflectors are the best way to warn drivers of your stalled vehicle. A drivers of your to warn reflectors are the best way Triangle night at a distance of 100 feet, tri- Consumer Reports study revealed that at over flares, flashing lights and flashlights. How- angles provide a clearer warning choice. in foggy weather flares may be your best ever, A car that approaches your vehicle at 60 mph requires at least 200 feet to stop. A car that approaches your vehicle at 60 mph stalls on a hill or easily seen from that distance. If your car Hazard lights aren’t to stop in away of your car from even farther curve, other drivers need be aware time. One night your car suddenly gets a flat tire and veers off to the side of the road. One night your car suddenly gets a flat tire flip your emergency flashers on and think the other drivers can see you. You other drivers may not see your hazard lights. be so sure. From a distance Don’t that traffic can spot your disabled car from a to ensure There is a better way pro- devices such as triangle reflectors or flares can distance. Auxiliary warning tect you and your car from danger. Light Up in an Emergency ~ ~ ~ ~ monoxide poisoning. Some other tips: Some poisoning. monoxide 22 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK wheel drivevehicles, ATVs andsnowmobiles.Occasionally hunters,skiers both onfootand horseback.Manyothersaccess thebackcountrywithfour- Montanans andtouristsalikeare takingtothefieldinincreasingnumbers, Survival forOutdoor Activities easily beoffsetbybodyshopbillsandmovingtrafficviolations. another point.Anymoneyyoumighthavesavedbydoingyour owntowcan aware ofstateandlocallawspertainingtotowing. Thelegalaspectbringsup dealer orcommercialtowingservice.Commercialoperatorsare alsousually If towingisnecessary,itrecommendedthatbedoneby an automobile the towingvehicle. very littlesteering,nobrakesandway tocommunicatewiththedriver of allaround,noheater,off theinsideofwindshield,withpoorvisibility with a10-foottowchain,becausethat’s allyoufound,tryingtoscrapetheice Think foramomentaboutbeingtowedat50milesanhourdownicyroad won’t workinanon-runningvehicle. brakes aretwoothermechanicalconveniencesfoundonmostcarstodaythat through anicywindshieldisnoteasythingtodo.Powersteeringandpower it isdependentonthehotwater fromtheengine.At20-below, tryingtosee is thetowedcarnotrunning;therefore,defrosterdoesrunbecause at adecideddisadvantage forseveralreasons.Usuallythereasontow driver ofthetowedvehicleis streets andhighways. The other aroundonsnowy trained peopletowingeach cidents arecausedbyun- of adeal.Eachyearmanyac- Winter towingisabummer Towing your car, one10feetbehind,andanother100behind. 200 feetaway. Onanundividedroad,putonetriangle100feetinfrontof the firstone10feetfromyourcar, thesecond100feetaway andthethird,at MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 23 lost and get on with saving your lost and get on with

are

you

that

In both of these tragic cases, what originally was not a life and death situation In both of these tragic cases, what originally was became just that. The panic factor caused a rush to get out of the woods. Ever hear the old adages, “two heads are better than one” and “haste makes Ever hear the old adages, “two heads are gear outlined in the a buddy, if you have the survival Alone or with waste”? next section of this handbook, there should be no need to rush to get out. Don’t Leave Your Buddy! (November 2001), this age old car- Even as the rewrite of the booklet begins by two separate father and son dinal rule has been ignored again - this time during one Operations Center, hunting teams. As we worked the Emergency up the next day, but were puzzled of these crisis, we were able to get aircraft this pair had was, smoke. Truth by the fact that the pilot could see no signal They also were not dressed no matches or wet matches, and no fire starter. is Why they split up gear. of survival for the season and had little in the way both of them their lives. This not known at the moment, but it nearly cost although physically, they had story has a happy ending - both were found, lost to life was A boy’s not so happy. little time left. The other story was later in this handbook). hypothermia. (Hypothermia is explained life. If you can admit you are lost one hour before life. If you can admit by put- gear, minimum survival dark and you have the uncomfort- use you should suffer no more than a very ting that hour to good day. able night and a little harassment the next Admit and other sportsmen become lost or stranded in desolate stranded lost or become sportsmen and other in number one rule The weather. terrain in severe rush to get Don’t is DON’T PANIC. the wilderness have lost their Many sportsmen out immediately. to themselves and they refuse to admit lives because lost. They are convinced that others that they got the next hill. They literally their truck is just over point of exhaustion. Hypo- run themselves to the die. thermia sets in, and they 24 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK At aminimum,youshouldcarry: carried inabackpackandlikethecarkit,itcanbequiteextensive. car survival itemscanbetransferredtothefield.Your outdoorskitshouldbe gone anhourorallday,youmustbepreparedtostaythenight.Manyof Whether youareanexpertornoviceoutdoorsperson,whetherplantobe Backpack SurvivalKit BUDDY! case oneofyougetshurtorgoesintohypothermia. together. You needeachother, bothpsychologicallyaswellphysically,in so noonewillmissit,orfollowadrainagedownhill. possible. Thenextday,setacourseofaction.Increasethesizeyourfire done tosaveyourlifeandspendascomfortableofastayinthewoods They willcomeandfindyou.Your jobistoconcentrateonwhatmustbe well asthegeneralpublic,alostperson.Theywillcome!Believeit! rescue system.Nothingralliestheemergencymanagementorganization,as mentioned elsewhereinthisbooklet,Montanahasanexcellentsearchand easier, nottomentionthecalmingeffectyoucanhaveoneachother. As the choreoffirebuilding,makingcampandsettingupsignalsshouldbealot lost You arelost! Physical exertion,exhaustion,andclimaticconditionsledtohypothermia. -soadmititandgetonwithsavingyourlives.Withtwoormorepeople cooking) canteen ofwater (U.S. Armytypehasanicemetalcup for heatingwater and handsaw orhatchet space blanket lightweight tarporplastic first aidkit candles matches (inawaterproof container)andlighter this handbook Believeitornot,you’renotthefirstpeopleonthisplanettobe DON’T LEA Most importantly--stay VE YOUR MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 25 whistle (plastic coach-type) whistle signal mirror little use topographical map (of compass and use them) know how to don’t if you however, #000 commercial fire starter; steel wool works great for drinking from surgical tubing—good tourniquet streams as well as an emergency type is excellent all purpose knife—Swiss rope tissue or paper towel raisins, candy, high-energy food—sugar, trailmix, soup, hot chocolate mix, bouillion cubes tape flashlight cell phone A calm mind and a good analysis of what resources are available can result in are available A calm mind and a good analysis of what resources you are limited only to your imagi- In timber country a very adequate shelter. and easiest to construct. Cut two nation. The lean-to is most popular today or use two trees with long limbs “Y” poles with your hatchet or pocket knife them; and place small trees or for the corner poles; place a cross pole between branches from the cross pole to the ground, butt end up - small end on ground. the string or tape from your pack and interweave cross members for Take Often, a large, downed log can make a good more protection and warmth. of rock overhangs, a series of advantage Take back for part of the shelter. Building a Shelter 26 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK the timeremaining,gatherfuel. Ittakesanamazingamounttolastthenight. drink, youcanthenturnyour attention toimprovingyournewhome.With teen cupandheatsomesoupor chocolate.Withafireandsomethingwarm to reflect theheat.Oncefire is going,heatwater (meltsnow)inyourcan- your spaceblanketorplasticbagagainstthebackoflean-to soasto or stones.Placethefirecloseenoughtothrowheatintoyour shelter. Use great starter. Ifthefiremustbestartedonsnow, buildaplatformoflogs fire startertablets,steelwool,etc.Pineresinfromthewound ofatreeis rectly fromamatch.Your survival kitshouldcontaintissuepaper, commercial While itisdaylight,getyourfirestarted.You willnotstartmanyfiresdi- more comfortableyouwillbe. or groundtarpaulinsarethebest.Themorepineboughsyou pileup,the grass andsticksaresuitabletocoverthebottomofshelters,butplasticbags sible. Digyourcaveontheleeward (downwind)sideofadrift.Pineboughs, fence, etc.,forawindbreak.Snowcavescanprovidethewarmest shelterpos- In opencountry,takeadvantage ofanydepression,rockpile,abandonedauto, borhood. a goodimaginationandsharphatchetcanmakeyoutheenvyofyourneigh- dead, intertwined,downfalltrees,etc.Arealisticappraisalofyoursituation, MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 27 Avalanches are complicated natural events that are the product of specific Avalanches terrain, weather and snowpack conditions. They cannot be predicted with Avalanche backcountry trav- pose a very serious threat to the unwary Snow avalanches safety is to recognize that this potential threat The first step in avalanche eler. with knowledge and experience exists, while at the same time realizing that that injure or kill people are Most avalanches one can minimize the danger. Most of members of their party. caused by the victims themselves or by other these accidents can be avoided. Use natural materials to form the symbol. You can use brush, foliage of any You Use natural materials to form the symbol. In snow covered areas, tramp down the snow type, rocks, or blocks of snow. material such as twigs or to form letters or symbols and fill with contrasting pine boughs. In addition to your fire and its smoke, become familiar with the following and its smoke, become familiar with In addition to your fire ground-to-air signals: Stay With Your Shelter With Your Stay the best and fast- Montana has one of must believe this! You Help will come! signal. Be prepared to systems in the country. Search and Rescue est reacting your whistle, three three blasts from three gunshots, earlier, mentioned As was may be You universally recognized as a distress signal. ground fires, etc., are spotted from the air. 28 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK Parks, ForestService,Parkandotheragencies. and skiclubs, MontanaDepartmentofFish,Wildlife& centers, snowmobile themselves ofanavalanche safetycourse.Theseareofferedbyavalanche as wellcasual,wintertimetravelersinMontana’s backcountryshouldavail certainty, butwecanidentifylevelsandtrendsinsnowstability. Frequent, stabilizing andoften leadstoavalanching. underlying snowpack.Rapidwarming ofthesnowpackbysunor rainisalsode- wind transport,thenewsnowhasn’t yethadtimetostrengthen andbondtothe storms. Duringperiodsofrapid newsnowloading,eitherfromprecipitationor Most avalanches occur onslopesof30–45degreesandduringorshortlyafter telephone numbers. recreation andworkactivities.Theyareeasilyaccessedby calling theabove snow, andavalanche conditionsandareofferedasanaidinplanningoutdoor lanche advisoriesforvarious partsofthestate.These describecurrentweather, Avalanche centersatBozeman,MissoulaandKalispellissuebackcountry ava- aipl ...... Kalispell ESTS, GLACIERNATIONALPARK FLATHEAD &KOOTENAINATIONALFOR- Northwest Montana ...... Missoula LOLO &BITTERROOTNATIONALFORESTS West CentralMontana ...... Bozeman GALLATIN NATIONALFOREST Southwest Montana w.scogwww.avalanche.org www.csac.org the Internetatthesehttpaddresses: These advisoriesarealsocarriedon 406/549-4488 406/587-6981 406/257-8402 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 29 Victims caught in an avalanche need to fight for their lives. Try to stay on or near Try need to fight for their lives. Victims caught in an avalanche If riding a snowmobile motions. the surface of the snow by using swimming to avoid being beaten then get away stay with the machine until it begins to roll, begins As the avalanche and poles. by the machine. Skiers should discard skis in front of your face and chest to slow and come to a stop, form an air pocket using your hands and arms. At the last moment if possible, thrust a hand or foot above the snow surface. Remain calm in order to conserve oxygen and energy. When traveling in the backcountry and the chance of an avalanche exists, ex- chance of an avalanche When traveling in the backcountry and the a time. The remainder of the party pose only one person to potential risk at If from safe locations, ready to effect a rescue should a slide occur. should watch rider to slope leave the avalanche a snowmobile becomes stuck on a potential the victim as he is watch occur, free the machine alone. Should an avalanche below the last seen area. carried downslope and concentrate the search Fifty percent of totally bur- Fifty percent of totally victims ied avalanche die within the first 20-30 minutes of being buried. By the time an orga- nized rescue party responds to an accident,the of fatality victims die from Two-thirds chances of surviving are very low. victim’s trauma injury. suffocation, while the other third die from In the event of an accident, the party will need to rely upon their ability of rely upon their ability party will need to of an accident, the In the event is of the essence. Time self-rescue. Every person traveling in the backcountry should carry and know how to use an know how carry and should the backcountry in person traveling Every save a life. These items can prob, and shovel. transceiver, avalanche 30 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK ~ ~ ~ Then: radio andtelevision. keep aheadofthestormbylisteningtolatestwarnings andbulletinson be withoutconventionalformsofheatingandcooking.Asmentioned earlier, A winterstormcouldisolateyouinyourhomeforseveraldays. Bepreparedto Winter SafetyTipsfortheHome ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ For safetravelinthebackcountry: Stock emergency water andcookingsupplies. Maintain asupplyoffoodthatcan bepreparedwithoutheating. stock ofextrabatteries. Keep abatterypoweredradioand flashlightsinworkingorder, andmaintaina and excitement. Enjoy thegreatMontanabackcountryinwinter. Itofferstremendousbeauty Always leaveamarginforerrorinjudgment. Have anescapeplanshouldavalanche occur. Practice safeavalanche routeselection andtraveltechniques. Always carryandknowhowtouseavalanche safety equipment. rain andconditions. Become knowledgeableaboutavalanches andlearntorecognizeavalanche ter- MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 31 Have candles and matches available in case of power outage. of power in case available matches candles and Have fuel sources may be fuel; your regular you have sufficient heating Make sure cut off. and a sufficient sup- heating source some type of emergency Have available enough to be warm one room in your house you can keep at least ply of fuel so good sources of backup heat. Kerosene heaters and wood stoves are livable. stoves, to overheating with coal, oil or wood burning Prevent fire hazards due inspected Have chimneys cleaned by a professional and fireplaces and furnaces. annually. main- on hand. These also need to be professionally Keep fire extinguishers family knows how to use them. tained. Make sure your (See If you must go outside, dress appropriately. Stay indoors during a storm. overexertion. Avoid below.) yourself shoveling snow! It is extremely hard work for anyone in kill Don’t bring on a heart attack, which less-than-excellent physical condition and can is a major cause of death during and after a storm. must keep your heating vent If heavy snow accumulates on your roof, you systems clear to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. notification of a storm, make sure your prescription medication With advance supplies are filled. for- notification, mothers, make sure you stock up on diapers, With advance mula and wet wipes. If you spend much time outdoors during work or recreation, wear loose-fitting, If you spend much time outdoors during work are clothing in several layers. Layers of protective clothing lightweight, warm more effective and efficient than a single layer of tight, heavy clothing. Layers can be removed to prevent perspiring and subsequent chill, and can be replaced should be tightly Outer garments as you begin to feel the need for more warmth. and hooded. A hood or ski-type mask should protect woven, water-repellent Dress to Fit the Season ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ 32 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK bite setsin. The chartbelowalsodifferentiateshowmuchtimeitwilltake beforefrost- temperature willbeinCelsius,whileourvalue isinFahrenheit. formula willbenearlyseamlessfromonecountrytothenext,althoughtheir safety isensured.WithourCanadianneighborssoclosetothestate,new portant sothatanaccurateandconsistentmeasurementisprovidedpublic ization ofthewindchillformulaamongmeteorologicalcommunitiesisim- skin, andtostandardizeaformulabeusedinternationally. Thestandard- Strong windsandcoldtemperaturescanmakeitfeelmuchcolderthan Wind ChillIndex gloves. protect yourlungsfromextremelycoldair. Mittensarebetterthanfingered much ofyourfaceandcovermouthtoensurewarm breathingandto actually is.Thisiswhytherea“windchill”temperature. Recently,meteorologists and medicalexpertsinthe United StatesandCanadahave revised thewindchillformulato create amorerepresentative ditions feltonexposedhuman value oftheactualcoolingcon- MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 33 50 percent are under 60 years old 50 percent are under 60 Over 75 percent are males About 20 percent occur in the home About 70 percent are automobile related About 70 percent are automobile caught out in the storm About 25 percent are people and over 40 years old The majority are males Winter deaths related to exposure to cold: Winter deaths related ~ ~ ~ Winter deaths related to snow and ice: related to snow Winter deaths ~ ~ ~ VENOUS blood is that which is returning to the heart and is usually dark red Venous is less than from the arteries, but bleeding can still be Pressure in color. profuse. ARTERIAL heart. Bright red blood from the Arterial blood is that which is moving away Because of the pressure exerted flows from the wound in spurts or pulses. a short time. It is the most seri- by the heart, a large quantity can be lost in it can be fatal. ous type of bleeding. If not controlled quickly, Severe bleeding from any major blood vessel in the body is extremely danger- Severe bleeding from any major blood vessel rapidly and the situation weather, ous; combine it with the effects of sub-zero of blood will cause moderate shock; becomes life threatening. Loss of one quart bleeding can be classified accord- loss of three quarts is usually fatal. External ing to its source. Wounds and Bleeding Field Manual 21–76 “SURVIVAL,” Thanks to the United States Army and their of this section. which serves as the source document for much Cold Weather Injuries Weather Cold are some rather chill- Listed below deaths occur. many unnecessary Every winter ing statistics. 34 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK fection canbedealtwithlater. must beusedin- time lookingfortheperfectitems.Ifunsterilematerial or otherfieldexpedientmeasurecanbeused.Thekeyhereisnottowaste dage hasapressurepadandtwolongties.Sterilegauzewithhandkerchief pressure bandagetoeachofthefirstaidkitsyouhaveassembled.Theban- can bepurchasedfrommedicalsupplystoresandmostdrugstores.Adda cation ofpressuredirectlyoverthewound.Readymadebandages The mosteffectivemeansofcontrollingexternalbleedingisbytheappli- DIRECT PRESSURE sure, Elevation orTourniquet. Control ExternalBleedingbyDirectPressure,PressurePointPres- to control. is usuallyslowandoozing.Thistypeofbleedingnotnormallydifficult bleeding ismostcommonandoccursinminorscrapescuts.Bloodflow Capillaries areverysmallandconnectthearteriesveins.Capillary CAPILLARY MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 35 Furthermore, a tourniquet is not recommended for general use because of the Furthermore, a tourniquet is not recommended following: A tourniquet, even properly applied, obstructs blood flow both to and A tourniquet, even properly applied, obstructs obstructing arte- A tourniquet may obstruct venous flow without totally from the wounded area, resulting in damage to all tissue. If the tourniquet from the wounded area, resulting in damage can progress to total gan- is left in place too long, the damage to the tissue grene with subsequent loss of the limb. resulting in more profuse arterial bleeding than before the rial flow, applied. tourniquet was ~ ~ TOURNIQUET over the bleeding point in con- Use a tourniquet only when direct pressure of the extremity fails to control the bleeding. Appli- junction with elevation the control of bleeding that the cation of direct pressure is so effective in use of a tourniquet is rarely necessary. ELEVATION OF THE WOUND ELEVATION as possible as high above the level of the heart Raising an injured extremity alone to the heart. Elevation slows blood loss by aiding the return of blood be accompanied by direct pres- will not control bleeding entirely; it must sure over the wound. Firm, even pressure should be applied to the bleeding point until the bleed- until the point to the bleeding be applied should even pressure Firm, if pressure to determine of and relaxation of application ing stops. Alternate 30 pressure up to desirable. Apply steady has stopped is not the bleeding has a pressure bandage time. Once most cases, this is sufficient minutes. In becomes blood- removed. If the dressing it should not be been applied, pressure must and additional not generated, pressure was soaked, sufficient wound with be accomplished by adding pressure to the be applied. This can of the wounded bandage over the first. Elevation the hand or with another If no medi- conjunction with the additional dressing. area should be used in to two days, the bandage can be left in place up cal facility can be reached bandage removed, the wound inspected, and a smaller after which it can be applied. 36 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK loss. ity topreventlimb rest oftheextrem- blood flowtothe 2 minutestolet 15 minutesfor1to pressure every10to the tourniquet or shecanrelease buddy ispresenthe tourniquet. Ifa move orreleasethe vivor doesnotre- After yousecurethetourniquet,cleanandbandagewound.Alonesur- quet, bindthefreeendofsticktolimbpreventunwinding. ening onlyenoughtostoptheflowofblood.Aftertighteningtourni- or overafracture.Usingstickashandletotightenthetourniquet,tight- 2 to4inchesabovethewoundsite.Neverplaceitdirectlyover Place thetourniquetaroundextremitybetweenwoundandheart quet asfollows: extremity andatleast1inchwideafteritistightened.Applythetourni- tourniquet shouldbe3to4incheswidebeforeitiswrappedaroundthe minimize damagetonerves,bloodvesselsandotherunderlyingtissues,the othersimilaritem.Toa largehandkerchief,trianglebandage,towelor You canimproviseone fromanystrong,soft,pliablematerialsuchasgauze, IF YOU MUST USE AMUSTTOURNIQUET IF YOU MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 37 Prevent further heat loss any way pos- Prevent further heat loss any way sible. hypothermia, the body In advanced itself and must be re- cannot rewarm sources. (Give from external warmed hot, sugary drinks if victim is conscious. Sharing body heat helps, especially inside blankets or a sleeping bag.) Give mouth-to-mouth resuscitation if breathing stops. Extremely Furnish external heat slowly. fast heating can also cause damage, so use caution. Recent medical guidance is not to en- courage the patient to exercise. Do not allow the victim to drink any kind of alcohol. TREATMENT for hypothermia: TREATMENT ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ , it’s known to be the number one cause of accidental known to be the number , it’s exposure Careless attitude, decreased attention span, daze and memory lapse. Uncontrolled shivering, drows- iness, blurred speech, confusion. slowing pace, inability Weakness, to maintain muscle movement. Disorientation and possible hal- lucinations and collapse. Poor coordination—repeated stumbling, poor control of arms and legs. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ SYMPTOMS to watch for in our- SYMPTOMS to watch selves and companions are: Hypothermia called Commonly death in outdoor activities. Hypother- death in outdoor lowering of body tem- mia is the al- any conditions, perature under and cold though moisture, wind leading most often are the by causes. It is compounded a combination of improper shelter and clothing, inadequate body tem- energy depletion. If 95 degrees perature goes below to drop Fahrenheit, it continues unconscious and rate. In a short time, the victim becomes at an ever-increasing often the result is freezing to death. 38 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK may havetoapplyartificialrespiration.Preventionisproperventilation. sleepiness ormuscletwitching.Freshairistheimmediatecure;inothersyou bing headachesorpoundingpulse.You mayrecognizeitinothersasbluelips, rying capabilityofthebloodstream.Itmayberecognizedasdizziness,throb- and nosymptomsbecausecarbonmonoxideverysubtlyattackstheoxygen-car- ventilated, suchasanautomobile,tent,camper, etc.Usuallythereisnowarning when gasolineenginesorstovesareoperatedinanareawhichisnotproperly Carbon monoxideisadeadly,colorlessandodorlessgaswhichcanbepresent Carbon MonoxidePoisoning doors. suntan lotionsorsunscreens.Cover asmuchexposedskinpossiblewhileout- very painfulbutrespondswelltotreatmentandtime.Prevention isapproved Sunburn canoccurinsnowcountry,especiallyhighaltitude.The injurycanbe Sunburn wearing ofprotectiveglasses. presses, aspirinandbandagesovertheeyesfor16–20hours. Prevention isthe may becompoundedbyhighaltitude.Treatment ofsnowblindnessiscoldcom- Snow blindnessiscausedbyunprotectedeyeexposuretotheglare offsnowand Snow Blindness frozen areawithsnow. Do notrubfrozenfleshorforciblyremoveglovesshoes.Aboveall,do but nottoorapidly. Ifhotwater isavailable donotusehotterthan105degrees. low-white spotsontheskin.Treatment istorestorewarmth totheaffectedarea, sue. You canrecognizeitonothersandmaybeevenyourselfasgrayish oryel- Frostbite isasituationwhereicecrystalsactuallyforminthevictim’s skintis- Frostbite MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 39 Keep indoor pets in a dry, warm area free of drafts. Elevate your warm area free of drafts. in a dry, Keep indoor pets the floor. off bed pet’s insulated pet house or dogs or cats with a dry, Provide outdoor extra calories, so warm demands Staying shelter out of the wind. whenever temperatures drop. Bring your feed your pet accordingly or other weather conditions become pet inside if the wind chill severe. and coat at paws pet’s Remove ice, salt and caked mud from your immediately if you suspect your pet your veterinarian once. Contact and it white or gray, has frostbite. Frostbitten skin may turn reddish, may be scaly or sloughing. kittens often nap on car engines. Knock on the hood or and Cats the car. starting honk the horn; then wait a few minutes before but even a small amount like the smell and taste of antifreeze, Pets close Tightly Thoroughly clean up spills at once. can kill them. cannot get to them. them where pets and store containers Cover or tack down electrical pets. can hurt Holiday paraphernalia out of reach. Read cords. Keep tinsel and glass ornaments Never put ribbon around a warnings on items like spray-on snow. or foil wrappings or six-pack neck or allow it to play with plastic pet’s beverage holders. such as chocolate diet. Holiday treats, regular Keep your pet on its and bones, can be harmful or toxic. mistletoe, philoden- Christmas rose, holly, Many plants—including Keep them out of your toxic to pets. dron and dieffenbachia—are reach. pet’s Always have fresh, clean water available. Courtesy of your veterinarian and Ralston Purina Company Winter Pet Care Tips Winter Pet Care healthier cold Give your pet a safer, Winter to pets. poses special risks these tips: weather season by following Protection for Pets for Protection PETS TO DO WITH WHAT to the Thanks of the family. consider pets part Many of us these tips. Company for providing Ralston Purina 40 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ sons, stockmenshouldtakeprecautionsinadvance ofseverewinterstorms. Blizzards takeaterribletollonlivestock.Forbothhumaneandeconomicrea- Protection forLivestock much saltduringtherecoveryperiod. frequently sufferfromsaltstarvation. Take carealsothat stockdonotgettoo After ablizzardofseveraldaysduration,cattlethathavebeen without salt tank heaterstoprovidelivestockwithwater. enough snowtosatisfytheirwater intake,stockmenareadvisedtousewater to becausedbydehydration,notcoldorsuffocation.Becausecattle cannoteat Autopsies ofcattlekilledbywinterstormshaveshownthemajority ofdeaths or cakesareexcellentforprovidingemergencyrations. emergency feedmethodsmayberequired.Concentratesintheform ofpellets largest determinantoflivestocklosses.Ifthestormlastsmorethan48hours, Haul extrafeedtofeedingareasbeforethestormarrives.Stormdurationis portion toensureanadequatereserve. stockmen checkwiththeirlocalcountyagenttodeterminethecorrectfeed better thanaherdwhichisfedonlytheminimum.Itrecommendedthat Well-fed stockwithareservenutritionsupplywillweatherblizzardmuch able. or lowlandswithtimberusuallysurviveallrightiffeed,water andsaltareavail- quent overheatingandrespiratorydisorders.Cattlerunninginbrushcountry Sheds maycausecattletoovercrowd,withconse- shelters. ter protectionforrangecattlethanshed-type properly orientedandlaidout,providebet- stock, intoshelteredareas.Shelterbelts, Move livestock,especiallyyounglive- MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 41 North Dakota South Dakota Wyoming Washington American Red Cross American Red Service National Weather Montana Department of Transportation Purina Company Ralston of: Emergency Management Agencies The Federal Emergency Management Agency Emergency The Federal Department of Commerce S. U. • • • • • who A special thanks goes to the United States Army of this booklet an the author gave years for twenty to learn much of this information first opportunity hand. Thanks to the following agencies for the information Thanks to the following agencies for and produc- they shared with us during the research tion of this handbook. • • Report hazardous materials incidents by calling 911. Report hazardous materials train- Coordinator about Hazardous Materials Awareness Ask your county DES ing in your county. Do not approach hazardous materials incidents unless you have been profes- materials incidents unless you have Do not approach hazardous may become a victim! You sionally trained to do so. ~ ~ ~ Hazardous Materials Incident Tips Incident Materials Hazardous The the winter. thoroughfares during be dangerous, icy can Montana highways in- incident greatly materials transportation a hazardous chance of encountering to help personal safety tips Here are a few winter-storm months. creases during keep you healthy. 42 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK NOTES: MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK 43 NOTES: 44 MONTANA’S TAKE-ALONG WINTER SURVIVAL HANDBOOK NOTES: This publication was originally funded in part by the Fed- eral Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Specifically, the money was made available under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program provided under FEMA - DR - 1113 - MT.

The contents herein do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of FEMA or the State of Montana; nor does the mention of trade names or commercial products constitute endorsements or recommendations for use.

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