· Follow the weather reports if you intend to be outside for extended periods. Realize that conditions may be worse than forecast.

· Dress properly. Wear layered, insulated clothing that doesn't retain moisture (polypropylene or wool) and a windproof outer layer. Always carry raingear. If possible, avoid going out in storms.

· Keep your clothes dry. Wet clothes lose their insulating effect and combined with wind, can chill you.

· Wear a warm hat or hood. Thirty percent to 50 percent of body heat is lost through the head.

· Avoid overexertion and sweating. Sweating increases heat loss through evaporation.

· If you get cold, find or make shelter. Build a fire if possible.

· Increase your intake of fluids and food. Carry high-calorie foods like candy bars and trail mix when going out in questionable weather. But avoid caffeine and alcohol; they steal your heat. Alcohol may make you feel warmer but it dilates blood vessels close to the surface of the skin, increasing heat loss.