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-The third reason I carry a tarp-
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-While injuries generally follow being caught, carried and buried in an avalanche it’s not the only way to get hurt in the backcountry. Snow sports and lower leg injuries are nearly synonymous. –
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-Thus a plan for packaging and warming a patient while awaiting rescue is mandatory. The versatility of the guide tarp facilitates this perfectly. –
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-Keeping an injured victim warm is the goal. The “human burrito” or “hypo wrap” is the solution. The recipe: tarp, insulation and external heat sources.- Wrapping the patient snuggly in this reduces the amount of dead air space around them and keeps them warmer.-
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-In addition to my tarp I carry an extra pair of puffy pants for insulation and heat packs to apply on the chest, armpits and groin. If someone else in the group carries an extra down jacket we have a full packaging/warming kit.-
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-What’s your emergency plan in the backcountry?-
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