Some of the most common and dangerous risks to OHV riders result from exposure to extreme weather. Learn to recognize the signs of these dangers, which include hypothermia, frostbite, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke. It’s even more important, however, to prepare ahead of time to avoid such risks.
| Risks from Extreme Weather |
| Condition |
Contributing Factors |
Symptoms |
Prevention |
| Hypothermia— The body loses heat faster than it produces it. |
- Extreme cold
- Use of alcohol or drugs
- Slower metabolic rates, as in older people
- Other medical conditions
|
- Uncontrolled shivering
- Slow slurred speech
- Memory loss
- Irrational behavior
- Lack of movement
- Sleepiness
- Unconsciousness
|
- Wear weather-appropriate clothing that can wick away moisture.
- Keep your head covered.
|
| Frostbite— Tissue is damaged by extreme cold. Frostbite most frequently occurs in toes, fingers, ears, and nose. |
- Extreme cold
- Wet clothes
- Wind chill
- Poor circulation (can be due to tight clothing, medications, or other medical conditions)
|
- Skin turns off-white
- Prickly or tingling feeling occurs as ice crystals form
- Pain may be present initially, then disappears as frostbite progresses
- In severe cases, loss of feeling occurs in the affected area
|
- Wear clothing to protect vulnerable areas.
- Avoid fabrics that retain moisture.
- Before exposure, avoid alcohol and smoking. Get plenty of food and rest.
- In prolonged exposure, find shelter and stay active
|
| Heat Exhaustion— The body produces heat faster than it can dissipate, increasing the core body temperature. |
- Extreme heat and direct sunlight
- Humidity
- Dehydration
- Strenuous exercise or enclosed spaces in warm weather
|
- Pale and clammy skin
- Weakness
- Nausea
- Headache
- Muscle cramps
|
- Wear light, loose clothing.
- Wear wide-brimmed hats, vented if possible.
- Drink plenty of liquids
|
| Heat Stroke— The result of advanced heat exhaustion. This is a dire condition that can result in death and must be avoided. |
(See “Heat Exhaustion.”) |
- Dry, hot, and flushed skin
- Dilated pupils
- Slow, weak pulse
- Shallow breathing
- High temperature
|
(See “Heat Exhaustion.”) |
| Note: Taking a first-aid course is highly recommended for all riders. |
