The most important thing to remember is that it is going to be COLD out
there! It will be important to be prepared to take care of yourself and to
keep yourself warm--it will be far more difficult at this time of year than
at any other Gathering to care for those who come unprepared, and not being
prepared is more than uncomfortable--it is dangerous. If everyone comes
prepared, everyone will have a fine time; if even one person suffers from
freezing, everyone will have a rougher time of it.
Personal items you will want to bring: Many warm clothes, including one
complete change to keep in a vehicle to be sure it doesn't get wet. Include
long underwear, boots, warm socks, warm gloves, a good hat, a scarf and/or
balaklava, sweaters, vests--bring more than you think you need! A good
weathertight tent with a groundcloth, a good insulating sleeping pad, and a
very warm sleeping bag with extra blankets or comforters. I am told that a
candle lantern can help warm a tent some, but be careful! Keep it away from
the tent material, and be sure there is enough ventilation. Cup, bowl, and
utensils. Cross-country skis and/or snowshoes will be useful (we hope).
Chapstick, sunblock, and sunglasses.
Group items we will need (leave items at the parking lot until you've
checked out the site--there usually is way too much stuff brought in to
regionals, and it all has to be carried back out. In harsh circumstances
like a winter regional it is preferable to bring in things only as they are
needed-and the 93 Love-In is quite close to the parking lot):
Love, respect, caring; Pots, pans, utensils; Insulated water containers;
Woodcutting equipment; Toboggans to haul gear; Some sort of floorless
shelter, like a screen house, to cover the latrine; Perhaps some sort of
heater for the latrine; Teepees and large shelters; Tarps, ropes, tools;
Rocks for a sweat lodge (very few rocks in the area); 5 gallon buckets;
Medical supplies; Bleach; Good food; Cold-resistant musical instruments;
Warmth and energy.
Don't bring pets--they can freeze, too.
Basic winter good sense:
*If you get wet, get warm. Hypothermia is thebiggest danger.
*Wear a hat. The head is the body's greatest radiator ofwarmth.
*Don't drink alcohol--it makes you feel warm by dilating the outer
blood vessels, which actually makes you lose heat faster.
*Layer your clothing. You have better control over temperature change.