Winter Wise Travel and Survival in Ice and Snow

by Alford, Monty

• ISBN13: 9781927527405
• ISBN10: 1927527406
• Edition: Reprint
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2014-01-14
• Publisher: Heritage House

Summary

A man who has spent his professional life measuring the flow of northern rivers, climbed Alaska's Mount McKinley, was a member of both Yale University and Maine University's scientific expeditions to the Antarctic, guided a film crew documenting the late Robert Kennedy's ascent of Mount Kennedy, and crossed the St. Elias mountain range is certainly no stranger to the cold! In Winter Wise, Monty Alford shares his passion for, and deep knowledge of traveling in ice and snow.

In addition to describing the scientific characteristics of winter weather and how to prepare for it with proper clothing, food, and conditioning, Winter Wise provides step-by-step instructions on building every conceivable winter survival instrument, from sleds to shelters to his own personal invention, the YuCan stove. This book is an essential resource for snowmobilers, cross-country skiers, ski patrol and rescue personnel, and all travelers in winter climates.

Author Biography

Monty Alford is a retired federal hydrographer who spent 35 years measuring and studying northern lakes and rivers. He is an experienced instructor of winter survival techniques and safe travel in snow and ice and a mountain guide who has made several ascents of northern peaks Yukon, Alaska, and beyond. He is the author of five books and numerous articles in outdoor, northern, and geographical magazines. He lives in the Yukon.

Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION

CHAPTER 1: Living with Ice and Snow
A. Advantages of Winter Travel
B. Disadvantages of Winter Travel

CHAPTER 2: Ice to Know – The Ice Formation Process
Types of Ice
Ice Identification and Metamorphosis
Bearing Strength of Ice
Ice Deflection Table
Overflow
Potentially Dangerous Areas
To Do and to Carry - Travel Procedures
Ice Prod and Makeshift Chisel
A Handy Ice Tool
Ice Daggers
Ice-cutting Tools
Needle Bar
Swedish Ice Drill
Motorized Ice Drills
Chainsaw
Swedish Ice Saw

CHAPTER 3: Snow
A. Travel on snow
Snowshoes
Skis
Sleds
B. Snow as a Shelter-building Material
Four basic designs
Common features
C. Snow Tools
Military Snow Saw
Lightweight Snow Saw
D. Avalanches
Safety Tips for Travel in Avalanche Country

CHAPTER 4: Trip Planning and Preparation
A. Preparation
B. Essential Gear
The Personal Survival Kit and the YuCan stove
C. Day Pack

CHAPTER 5: Living with Cold
A. The Body’s Protective Mechanisms
B. Windchill
C. Hypothermia
Treatment
D. Frostbite

CHAPTER 6: Keeping Us Warm (Clothing and Food)
A. Clothing Essentials
The Dress Code
The Proper Materials
Footwear
Protect Your Skin and Eyes
B. Food Essentials
Food Value
Ease of Preparation
Snacks
Winter Trail Cooking Kit

CHAPTER 7: A Survival Scenario
A. This Could Happen to You
B. Signals
International Distress Signals
Signal Mirrors
Radios, Beacons and Phones
C. Fires
Recommended Firestarters
Fire Tips

D. Survival Food
Plants
Fish
Animals
Fall
E. Summary: Rules for Survival

Appendix A
A Reference for Travellers

Appendix B
Snow Terminology

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