Suggested Cold Weather Equipment
Compiled from East Coast Paddlers members
The first list is aimed at paddling in cold weather with a reasonable degree of comfort; the second list becomes very important if someone goes in the water. These are items the groups should consider taking, although each person doesn't need to take all of them. Also see the information on preventing hypothermia.
It is always a good idea to have a Float Plan and leave on it on your windshield. Some other ideas we like:
- Have participant list, with emergency phone numbers
- Dress in iayers
- Poly propylene underlayers
- Wool socks
- Dry suit (or wet suit)
- Rain coat w/hood
- Water-proof hat w/brim
- Latex gloves to wear under pogees or neoprene gloves
- Neoprene mittens or paddling gloves
- Second pair of gloves - for warm hands when you stop
- Ear muffs
- Mukluks (e.g., Chotas)
- Foot warmers
- Beaver hat w/flaps (a hot fashion statement!)
- Thermal blanket or Space Blanket
- Second pair of prescription glasses
- Rope (for boat, also rescue, also emergency)
- First aid kit
- Sunscreen
- Chapstick
- Flashlight, extra batteries
- Cell phone (turned off! -- only for emergencies)
- Lighter, waterproof matches and fire starter
- Knife, small saw or hatchet -- for firewood
When Someone Goes Swimming...
If someone goes in the water you must be able to warm them up quickly. This involves getting the person inot dry clothing, keeping them warm, making a fire and preparing some warmthing warm to eat or drink.
- Piece of Plastic (ground cloth)
- Have Extra Clothes and Socks in Dry Bag
- Towel
- Dry Bag for Wet Clothes
- Hot Drinks in Thermos
- Chocolate
- Campstove, Pot, Water, Soup, Tea, Tang, etc.
- Materials for starting a campfire:
- Firestarter made from candle wax and dryer lint, poured into egg carton
- Sterno
- Flares for Fire Starters
- Fire Logs w/lighter