If you' re caught out in frigid weather, a snow cave can save your life. It's below freezing and your feet get wet crossing a stream. You should . . . Trapped perspiration and overheating while walking or climbing is the enemy, and the way to defeat it is to wear multiple layers, removing outer clothing while exercising and putting them back on while stationary. Goosedown loses its loft and warmth when wet, and most synthetic fleeces offer poor wind resistance.
Any warmth offered by alcohol is a false warmth.
Frostbite and burns are very similar, including the degrees to which they occur. Treatment is also similar, except that gradual, never sudden, warming is essential for the frostbite-affected area. A tremendous amount of heat loss takes place from the head and neck. A well-insulated hat goes a long way toward keeping the whole body warm. A smart trick is a muffler or even a bandanna tied around the neck.