A polar expedition requires planning on many levels such as physical training, nutrition, gear, clothing and risk response plans. If sufficient time is put into planning, it will reduce the risk of injury, disconfort, danger and provide the group with the necessities to enjoy their trip. The information provided here are general guidelines designed for educational use only and is not a substitute for specific training or experience. We assume no liability for any individual's use of or reliance upon any material contained or referenced herein. It is your responsibility to have the proper knowledge, experience, and equipment to travel safely in cold conditions.
risk planning
In order to ensure a safe trip, you need
to plan for the unexpected. The best way to do this is to prepare for the worst case scenario. For example, if
you were to get lost how much time would it take for someone to take notice. Below are a few of our suggestions
on how to incorporate risk planning into your trip.- Provide someone that is not going on the trip your itinerary and check in on a regular basis using a satelite phone.
- Have some flares and be aware of the emergency distress signals so that a plane from the air would be able to see you and know what kind of help you need.
- The trip leader will seek insurance so each participant will need to fill out a questionnaire covering medical history and the level of fitness. Idealy, this form should be approved by a doctor in order to ensure a safe trip and avoid unknown injuries. Example of form
- If you are dog sledding, you should place the sled dogs in a “U” shape around the tent. so that you will be warned if any polar bears should approach.
- To prevent frostbites, stay hydrated and eat a lot but in small amounts of food.(carbohydrates are the best since they are quick to digest and easy for your metabolism to turn into heat). Warning signs: If you feel tingling in your feet, fingers and the tip of your nose starts to feel numb, cover those areas immediately with dry clothing.
- If you do happen to get frostbites, warm the affected area by immersing them in warm (NOT HOT) water for at least 30 to 45 minutes, or until it feels warm and the sensation returns. During warming, you may feel severe pain and the injured area may swell and change color.
nutrition
Stay energized by carrying a minimum amount of provisions grouped in three basic foods: carbohydrates,
fats and proteins. It is essential to plan for enough water for the entire trip. Obviously a winter trip
provides plenty of snow to work with. However, summer trips would require thinking of either carrying enough
water or being aware of water sources along the path. Vitamins and minerals should be added to the water.
Measure your servings of food and organize separate sacks of food by meal type such as breakfast, lunch,
dinner, hot drinks and dessert bag.
clothing techniques
The three layer system wicks away
perspiration and provides insulation from the cold, protecting
you from the wind. Implementing this will allow you to adjust your garments easily when there is a
change in weather or heat output.
Base layer: Worn close to your skin, it wicks away perspiration from your skin to keep you warm and dry. Recommended materials include capilene polyester, untreated polyester and wick-able polyesters (polypropylene). Cotton should be avoided because it has poor wicking properties.
Mid- layer: Provides insulation. It should retain your body’s heat, and wick perspiration from your body. Recommended materials are polar fleece and synchilla because they dry quickly. Wool should be avoided, it’s heavy and hard to dry.
Outer Shell: Protection from the harsh winds. The more wind proof the garment is, the less breathable it will be. Recommended materials are mountain parka or anorak made of suplex, ventile or micro fiber. Gortex and waterproof-breathable materials do not breathe in temperatures below –20C.
Extra clothing: Extra insulation and is worn when taking breaks.
