Mountain Safety
Mountain safety is paramount in and around Winter Park, Colorado. It is 9,000 feet above sea level. The air is thinner and less oxygen is available. People coming from lower elevations may experience altitude sickness. This usually occurs within the first 48 hours. You may experience headaches, nausea, insomnia, and loss of appetite.
The best remedy is to take it easy your first day in the
mountains. Increase fluid intake, decrease salt, alcohol and caffeine
intake, and select high-carbohydrate, low-fat foods. Be aware that high
elevation can also accentuate existing health problems.
As for
what to wear, layers of clothing are best. They can be added and
removed in order to better regulate your body temperature. Base Layers:
long underwear, preferably, polyester or wool/poly blend; a turtleneck
or long sleeve shirt, then sweater, fleece, or sweatshirt. Socks: thin
wool or poly socks for skiing or snowboarding, thick ones are too
bulky, and don't keep your feet as warm. Outer Layers: coat and pants
or bibs should be warm, water resistant and comfortable; gloves or
mittens, mittens are warmer if you tend to get cold hands; hat that
covers your ears and stays on your head during physical activity (80%
of heat is lost though your head); glasses or goggles; sunscreen and
lip balm are important to use at high altitude.
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