Shivering in the cold
Mt. Fuji is one of the world’s most beautiful tourist spots and attracts many hikers – beginners and pros alike to see the majestic beauty that the mountain is made of. Anyone who is determined to climb to the top can do so as long as they are persevering and do not mind getting sweaty or out of breath once in a while. Japan boasts of beautiful Alps and mountains in the country side and is one of the reasons why many travellers want to experience this country first hand.
Mt. Fuji
Travellers and locals alike have to keep in mind that hiking and doing strenuous activities do have their own downfall at times and one of the most important dangers to look out for is hypothermia. Hypothermia happens when the body is losing heat very fast and is bordering on dangerous low temperature. Hiking and walking around in the cold plays a huge role in causing hypothermia. Fatigue, cold weather and wet clothes can easily turn a nice hike to a nightmare. Make sure that when going hiking, appropriate clothing is worn such as waterproof jackets, snow pants, thermal for the inside layer of clothing and ensure that you are comfortable and warm. It is always better to remove pieces of clothing when hot rather than have nothing to wear when cold. Hats or beanies are also important pieces of clothing as keeping the head warm protects it from the harsh change of weather. Bring necessary hiking materials such a blanket that can be used in case of emergency, ample supply of water, protein bars or sweets which generate heat in a matter of seconds when consumed. Exhaustion, numb skin, shivering, slurring when talking, violent behaviour and dizziness are some of the symptoms of hypothermia. If anyone in your group is showing symptoms make sure that they are taken out of the cold, under a shelter perhaps and any wet clothing is removed and changed with warm clothing. Give the person something to drink and a small bite of food. Be careful when trekking around Japan because as beautiful as it is, it can also lead to being an ugly memory.
Images from Anesthesia-Resident and Japan-Guide