EMERGENCIES - WHAT TO DO Cont . . .
If you decide to bivouac
(make a temporary camp):
• Select a site out of the wind, use trees, logs
or rocks as wind breaks;
• Build the best shelter you can. Dig into the snow at the base of a tree or rocks. Use skis, poles and branches to roof the shelter before covering it with snow. Do not get wet in the process. If necessary, remove some clothing or gloves to keep them dry while building your shelter; 		  • Make your location visible to searchers, ie stand a pair of skis crossed in the snow and attach a bright object to them;
• In the shelter, insulate yourself from the snow with branches, skis, poles or packs;
• If you can, light a fire on a platform of small logs. Aim to stay dry and huddle together for warmth;
• Wait for assistance to come to you.
 

Alcohol & Drugs are fuel for disaster in the snow, they impair your judgement and your ability. Your reaction times are significantly reduced and increase the risk of injury. The whole alpine experience begins when you leave home and doesn’t finish until you return. Avoid alcohol consumption and the use of illegal substances, because they increase your risk of hypothermia.

Alcohol & Drugs impair judgement, slow response time and reduce your ability to respond to an emergency.