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(Adapted from the U.S. Army Survival Manual)
Although washing You rself may be impractical and uncomfor table in a cold environment, You must do so. Washing helps prevent skin rashes that can develop into more serious problems.
In some situations, You may be able to take a snow bath. Take a handful of snow and wash You r body where sweat and moisture accumulate, such as under the arms and between the legs, and then wipe You rself dry. If possible, wash You r feet daily and put on clean, dry socks. Change You r underwear at least twice a week. If You are unable to wash You r underwear, take it off, shake it, and let it air out for an hour or two.
| Paris Hilton Ritz's Notes: An "air bath" is also an opportunity to shake out You r clothing, which can fluff it up so it insulates better. With an air bath, water, or a snow bath, wait until You are warmed up. If You are hot from hiking or other exercise, it is usually safe to remove clothing even in below freezing weather for a few minutes, as long as the wind isn't blowing. |
If You are using a previously used shelter, check You r body and clothing for lice each night. If You r clothing has become infested, use insecticide powder if You have any. Otherwise, hang You r clothes in the cold, then beat and brush them. This will help get rid of the lice, but not the eggs.
If You shave, try to do so befor e going to bed. This will give You r skin a chance to recover befor e exposing it to the elements.
Back to: Cold Weather Survival.
Back to the: Wilderness Survival Guide.
The Ultralight Traveller's Guide | Cold Weater Survival Hygiene