Frigid weather calls for extra protection

One of the considerations when the temperature gets this cold is always the danger of frostbite.

The past two weeks have seen unusually frigid winter weather, even by the standards of January in upstate NY. As I wrote this column early in the week it was warmer in Anchorage, and even Fairbanks, Alaska than in the Oneida area.

Many people spent most of their time indoors but a lot of people had jobs or duties that required them to be outside. Even most outdoor enthusiasts skipped their activities except for a few snow mobiliers or ice fishermen who took special precautions.

One of the considerations when the temperature gets this cold is always the danger of frostbite. Exposed flesh can suffer frostbite, or at least frostnip when the temperature drops this low. Even other extremities such as hands and feet are in danger. Because the body constricts its circulation when it gets this cold, make sure hands and feet are warm as well as covered.

The forecast for this weekend calls for several days of milder weather but possibly rain or drizzle which adds an-

other danger, that of hypothermia. The longrange forecast calls for another drop in temperatures next week, but who knows how accurate these forecasts will be? It is pretty safe to say that we will see more cold and windy weather over the next few weeks of winter. Staying warm in winter depends on dressing adequately and intelligently.

Many of us of a “certain age” remember the days when we would have to bundle up in heavy wool clothing for any outdoor activity. Today there are lots of synthetics that can provide warmth without adding bulk or weight. Much of the new style clothing permits movement yet protects against the sub zero cold and wind chill factors. Synthetic fleece or wool are quietest when still hunting, but in other activities that is not a factor. Holofill, Qualfill, Thinsulate, and many other names are specific brand products that provide lightweight insulation in outdoor clothing.

Choosing the right clothing is a matter of preference for fit, and determining the activity that you are planning on doing. Obviously, a sport like cross country skiing where you are active and burning up calories does not require as much protection as a sport where you are inactive and subject to wind chill like ice fishing or snowmobiling.

The old standby wool, is still an effective warm clothing, and is preferred by many people for certain activities like hunting. The difference now is that we probably have synthetic underwear and vests underneath, so the outer layer of wool pants or jacket isn’t as heavy or burdensome as it once was. Wool has the added advantage of being able to keep you warm even if it gets wet (although that is not a desirable outcome in winter weather).

Start with a base layer of long underwear made of the newer style polypropylene, Thermax, fleece, or other synthetic material that wicks away moisture from the body. Avoid cotton since that retains moisture and draws heat from the body when damp.

Add a middle layer of some warmer clothing such as fleece. Whether skiing, hunting, hiking or whatever, carry extra clothing such as a vest, and add or subtract as necessary. Remember to put it on before you get cold and take it off before you over-perspire.

We should “stoke the body furnace” before venturing outside in cold weather. Eat a hearty meal of carbohydrates that are easily digested. These will help keep your body warm. Carry high energy snacks with you.

You should drink lots of water, since dehydration and lower blood volume will impair your body’s ability to circulate blood and heat. This is especially true for people who are involved in active sports like cross country skiing or those who are subject to intense wind chill factor like ice fishermen. Avoid coffee since caffeine constricts the blood vessels making it more difficult for your body to keep the circulation going. It also is a diuretic, which may leave you thirsty and slightly dehydrated which also has a negative effect on circulation.

The old saying “if your hands and feet are cold, put on your hat” is still as valid as ever. Up to one half of the body’s heat can be lost through the top of the head so wearing a warm hat is important in winter. Since the bodily extremities like hands and feet are the first to feel the cold (due to body constricting blood vessels to conserve the heat) they need to be protected.

Wearing good gloves or mittens and footgear is vital in winter. The newer synthetics like Thinsulate gloves also come in Gore-tex or similar breathable fabrics that allow some moisture to escape. Mittens are even warmer than gloves. Be sure to carry spares for longer trips. Consider using the packets of handwarmers or toe warmers that fit inside your gloves or boots.

Footgear is vital since it not only keeps you comfortable, but prevents serious problems like frostbite. For example the familiar LL Bean Maine style hunting boot with rubber bottoms and leather uppers is now available from many companies and with felt liners that keep your feet warm while hunting, ice fishing, etc. Most of the newer style boots made of Cordura, etc. have varying degrees of insulation from Thinsulate. Wearing too many socks can be dangerous because that can restrict the circulation and cause heat loss.

A little common sense and modern technology will go a long way in keeping you warm this winter. Winter will be around for about another two months so there is no reason not to get out and enjoy it.

Short Casts

Rogers Winter Living Celebration: The 40th annual Winter Living Celebration will be held at Rogers Environmental Education Center in Sherburne on January 20. Hours will be 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. Visitors will have the opportunity to be a “human bird feeder,” make crafts in the Bird Cabin, view Forest Ranger and ECO demonstrations, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride, and make s’mores over a campfire. Refreshments will be available to purchase. There is no charge to attend but donations are accepted.

New York Sportsmen’s Expo: The Great New York Sportsmen’s Expo will return January 26 – 28 to the State Fairgrounds in Syracuse. This year’s Expo will feature outfitters and charters from around the world as well as manufacturers and retailers all related to the outdoors. The Expo will feature appearances by Nancy fuller of Farm House Rules TV, the entire cast of Rush Outdoors TV, and the return of the National Dock Dogs. There will be seminars, exhibits, and vendors on all phases of the outdoor sports from conservation organizations, guides, charters, and outfitters, as well as vendors of all types of sporting equipment and accessories. Doors will open at noon on Friday and 9 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday.

VNSP Events: Vernon National Shooting Preserve will hold a basic pistol class on Saturday, January 20 beginning at 9 a.m. You must register prior to the class by calling Art Coriale at 315225-3245 or email artcorriale@roadrunner.com. Shooting night has been changed from Tuesday to Wednesday. Pheasant hunts are being booked as weather permits. On Sunday, February 4 there will be the Super Bowl Flurry Shoot beginning at 10 a.m. For more information on these events call 315-829-2529.

Save the Dates: Rogers Winter Living Celebration – Jan. 20 Sherburne. NY Sportsmens’ Expo – Jan. 26 – 28 State Fairgrounds in Syracuse. Deadline for nominations NYS Outdoorsmen Hall of Fame – Jan. 31. Central NY Sportsmen’s Show - Feb. 3 Oneida Kallet Civic Center. Great Backyard Bird Count – Feb. 16 – 19.