Treating Hypothermia

I’m just snuggled up by my fireplace on a cold rainy day which is inspiring me to talk about the cold, specifically hypothermia.

 

Problems with the cold have been on my mind a lot lately. I did just return from working in Antarctica where it was quite cold. Since being back in California, it has been raining and snowing, a lot. We are being hit by the “atmospheric river,” and while these are relatively warm storms, it is still colder and damper than most people are used to – especially in sunny California. On top of that, I recently attended a lecture by the renowned cold physiology scientist, Dr. Giesbrecht aka Dr. Popsicle, on hypothermia and crevasse rescue[i].

 

All of this led me to write this article. Let’s talk about what’s going on physiologically when we get cold, discuss the decision process needed to determine when it is causing a problem, and the actions to take to prevent it from becoming something significant (AKA hypothermia).

 

So, first things first, cold will always be a problem when we are losing heat faster than we can replace it.

 

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TRIP REPORT: Treasure Peak

Climbing Treasure Peak’s Northwest Ridge was such a great half-day objective. The hiking was pleasant, the views spectacular, and the summit climb was engaging and fun.  We snuck this in during thunderstorm season, so we got a pre-dawn start.  But that wouldn’t be necessary if the weather is good. 

 

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TRIP REPORT: Norman Clyde Peak – Northeast Ridge

Norman Clyde Peak has a huge striking arete and summit pinnacle.  It’s visible from Temple Crag and is found along the Palisade Traverse.  However, it doesn’t get that much traffic as it’s a long approach and stiff scrambling.  I found this trip to be a solid day effort.  It could be more pleasant as an overnighter. 

I’ve had this peak on my mind since I was a park ranger at Devils Postpile and gave campfire talks about Norman Clyde.  It was good to finally get a day on my own in these wild and beautiful mountains as I climbed the Northeast Ridge of Norman Clyde Peak.

 

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TRIP REPORT: East Arete of Mount Humphreys

This peak is a part of the Bishop skyline.  If you spend enough time here, eventually you’ll want to climb this picturesque peak.  The East Arete of Mount Humphreys is considered a classic route for those inclined to rock climbing.  It’s a big day with a lot of elevation gain and ridge climbing.  I enjoyed the climb, and found it to be a full day’s effort of mountain climbing.

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