Laurie Gullion, coordinator of the Outdoor Education option at the University of New Hampshire, is offering tips for novice outdoor enthusiasts to safely enjoy winter in the face of changing weather and other uncertainties.

In a press release, Gullion says people who hike and camp in winter need to have previous experience in other seasons as well as in higher, exposed elevations to test their personal preparedness and decision-making. In addition, winter backpackers should: get training from a reputable organization on cold-weather first aid, camping, map and compass, and avalanche awareness; go with a support group of qualified friends; plan on being out overnight, even if it’s a day trip; leave a trip plan with a contact person, including a time when they should contact search and rescue authorities; and know how to manage their clothing and gear systems to stay dry and functional.

Other tips include easily avoidable errors, such as consuming enough calories and water to avoid dehydration, a loss of energy, and cold injuries like frostbite, and understanding the weather to make appropriate and conservative decisions, especially about turning back or dropping quickly below tree line in the face of worsening weather.
Gullion, who has paddled, hiked and climbed in the Canadian and Scandinavian Arctic, says, “Those guidelines are appropriate for any season and every activity, but they are essential for winter experiences.”

People are used to instant communication, but in the backcountry, communication is thwarted by deep valleys, high mountains and a lack of transmission towers.
“A cell phone should not only be treated as a last resort but as no option at all, and travelers should be prepared to deal with a variety of emergencies within their own party. People must enter a winter environment with the mindset and equipment that they will be able to come to their own rescue,” she says.