Mountain Preparedness
With the weather coming in full force towards winter Canadians are anticipating their visits to both local and destination slopes. Adventuring up the mountain can be an absolute blast from sledding, snowboarding and skiing to snowmobiling, tubing and snowshoeing – the fun is endless! Which is also one main reason why mountain goers should know how to be prepared:
BYOK – “Bring Your Own Kits”
It is highly recommended to pack your own types of first aid supplies with you while hitting the slopes. You never know when and where you may find yourself in a situation needing immediate first aid attention. There are multiple dangerous scenarios, which can occur on the slopes themselves or trail routes, to be prepared could mean saving you a hospital visit or even your life. First Aid Canada offers smaller Adventure or Belt Pack Kits, which can be easily and comfortably worn beneath clothing.
If staying in a condo or cabin up the mountain be sure to find out ahead of time if the accommodation has a stocked and up-to-date first aid kit onsite. If the location is a personal rental, for example through AirBNB it may be required to bring along your own kit. In instances like this the First Aid Canada Team highly recommends a Vehicle Distress Kit or a Home Kit and it may also be beneficial to stock up on additional supplies such as Sam Splints.
- Vehicle Distress Kit – Small
- Vehicle Distress Kit – Medium
- Vehicle Distress Kit – Large
- Vehicle Distress Kit – Extra-Large
- Home Kit – Standard
- Home kit – Deluxe
Stay Healthy, Stay Warm
With intense activity in a cold environment comes the need to stay hydrated and warm. Many people underestimate the energy exuded in a cold environment when in fact the body is working harder than normal to regulate temperatures and adjust to elevated climates. Snow is also commonly thought to be a substantial hydrator when the answer is a definite no. Consuming snow actually dehydrates the body faster as the body expends more energy melting it, leaving you less quenched to begin with. Because the body is working extra hard in colder, elevated climates it is also important to consume healthy snacks throughout the day and substantial meals.
Last week the First Aid Canada Team posted a blog on Signs, Symptoms & Treatment: Frostbite & Hypothermia – Frostbite is common in colder environments and it is important to check the weather beforehand and dress appropriately for it.
The Buddy System
Lastly, the “Buddy System.” Many are familiar with this system and it is especially important to have a main point of contact up the mountain in case of emergency. By skiing or snowboarding with someone you are ensuring not only your own safety, but the safety of others. Accidents are all too common up the mountain and the landscape is vast. Check in with your buddy at the top and bottom of the mountain if you don’t plan on taking the same routes down, to ensure no one gets injured or worse: goes missing.
Enjoy your time up the mountain this holiday season! And remember,