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water will remove any contamenents. These tablets as well as other water purifying devices are available at your local sporting goods store.

5. Staying warm is crucial to survival. The onset of hypothermia will cause the body temperature to drop quickly sending it into a coma that will ultimately lead to death. In addition to shelter, you must be prepared to make a fire if need be. Pack waterproof matches and fire starters. Fire starters come in a wide array of materials. Again, your local sporting goods store will be able to outfit you with something to suit your needs. I prefer to use little blocks of wax that have candle wicks inside them. This is something I use when camping and they actually take up very little space. In addition to fire starters, a box of chemical hand warmers could prove very beneficial. These little pouches, once activated, provide heat for up to ten hours.

6. Signaling devices. You need to be visible in order to be rescued. In addition to road flares, you may wish to pack a signal flare (flare gun) as well as some highly visible spray paint. Neon orange tends to work the best. Also, you want to be heard. Pack a couple of whistles and a signal horn (fog horn in a can). These items are relatively inexpensive and take up little space in your vehicle.

7. Use common sense. Your mind will be your salvation or your death sentence. Do not try to play the hero by setting off on your own. You must stay calm and think through your situation rationally. Make decisions which are clear and concise and as absent as possible from emotion. By thinking things through you will be surprised what you can do when put in a situation that calls for survival. Rely on your inherent instincts and do not trust your emotions.

Surviving winter travel starts with a plan and a well thought out course of action. Treading out into inclement weather should always be considered with great caution and weighed against the possible consequences.

Learn more about this author, Laura Beth Caldwell.
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