Hypothermia occurs when the body loses heat at a faster rate then it can be produced. The core temperature of the body begins to drop. After a drop of as little as two degrees Fahrenheit, the brain begins to malfunction. If heat loss is not controlled

and / or the body has no more fuel (food and water) to produce heat, the victim has a very good chance of dying.

Early Signs: (Core temperature 95 - 96 F)

* Shivering

* Apathy

* Decreased awareness

* Unable to think or solve basic problems

* Confusion

* Skin pale and cool to the touch

Advanced Signs: (Core temperature 93 - 94 F)

* Stumbling

* Obvious shivering

* Little or no effort to protect self

* Unaware of present situation

Further Advanced Signs: (Core temperature 91 - 92 F)

* Difficulty walking

* Intense shivering

* Thick or slurred speech

* No effort to protect self

* Skin appears ash gray and cold

* Possible hallucinations

Critical Stages: (87 - 90 F)

* Unable to walk

* Shivering comes in waves

* Speech is very difficult to understand

As the core temperature continues to drop shivering will cease, respirations and pulse will appear absent, and the skin will become blue in color. Death will soon follow.

The best treatment for hypothermia is prevention. However, if someone is becoming hypothermic:

* Remove the victim from the wind, rain, etc.

* Replace wet clothing and add more clothing

* Insure head and neck are well insulated

* Keep the victim moving (in-place exercises)

* Give food to eat, preferably carbohydrates

* Replace fluids (very warm if possible)

If the victim does not improve quickly, or if the symptoms are severe, you must take immediate and decisive action.

* Set up a tent or create a shelter

* Set up a sleeping pad and bag

* Remove the victim’s clothes (even if they appear dry)

* Dry the victim

* Re-dress in dry synthetic underwear if available

* Place a dry insulating hat on the victim’s head

* Quickly place the victim in the sleeping bag (possibly with a partner for added body heat)

* Give very warm water to drink and dissolve hard candy or sugar in it if possible

* Give food to eat (carbohydrates)

* Fill water bottles with hot water and place in the armpit and groin area