WINTER SAFETY IN THE FOREST
The Inyo National Forest encompasses thousands of square miles of
mountain peaks, expansive meadows and beautiful pine forests. In
winter, the area is transformed into a snowy wonderland beckoning
the outdoor recreationist with downhill and cross country skiing,
snowmobiling, snow play, snowshoeing, dog sledding, bobsledding
and more.
Before You Go... Tell someone:
Where you are going
When you are returning
Who you are going with
Be Prepared... When enjoying winter recreation such as cross country
skiing and snowmobiling, it is your responsibility to be aware of
winter safety and be prepared for survival.
Weather: Be aware of the Current
Weather Conditions. Look at the forecast report before your
trip and recognize that conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
Obtain Current
Road Conditions and avoid traveling during heavy storms and
whiteout conditions.
Avalanches: They may occur at any time during the winter. Avoid
mountainous terrain after heavy snowfalls or long periods of high
wind. Avoid crossing steep hillsides and entering narrow, steep-sided
canyons. If crossing potentially dangerous areas is unavoidable,
one person in the party at a time should cross the danger zone with
all others watching until that person crosses safely.
Creeks and Lakes: Be aware of snow-covered water courses. Crossing
creeks, snow bridges or lakes is dangerous. To assure your safety,
stay off frozen lakes.
Hypothermia... is caused by exposure to cold aggravated by wetness,
wind and exhaustion. It is a rapid and progressive mental and physical
collapse resulting from lowering the inner temperature of the human
body. Untreated, hypothermia can result in death. Take proper clothing,
eat sensibly and carry quick-energy foods.
Altitude
Sickness: Altitude sickness occurs because of a lack of oxygen.
Victims of altitude sickness should stop and rest, breathe deeply,
and slowly return to lower elevations.
Altitude sickness can be minimized if you take a day or two
to climitize yourself to the increase in altitude before you do
any strenuous activities. Also, drink plenty of non-caffeinated
beverages, that's water. Many sport style drinks contain caffeine.
Survival Kit: Check your gear, and make sure it is in good shape.
A survival kit is a must. If you break down in your car, on a snowmobile,
or break a ski binding far from a road, the following equipment
could make the difference between adventure and calamity:
A space blanket, a poncho or two large
plastic trash bags for emergency shelter
Warm clothes for layering (wool or synthetics
are best)
Water, sunglasses, sunscreen
An ensolite pad provides insulation from
snow and ice
Whistle for emergency signaling (3 blasts
mean "help")
Waterproof matches or lighter in case
you need a fire
Please be careful... and enjoy your visit to the Inyo National Forest