North India is shivering amidst low temperatures, the sun playing truant and chilly winds sucking life out of people. Most people want to remain cuddled in their warm blankets all the time. But the courageous ones are planning winter vacations to hill stations like Shimla, Srinagar etc. This is the best time of the year to visit these places and catch some snowy action, right? But you don’t want to end up getting Hypothermia!

So how do you keep yourself and your kids safe while on your ‘snowman vacation’? Simple! Just follow these basic rules (make your hubby and kids follow them too), and you’ll be all right…

* First of all, pack right. This means, pack up a nice stack of woollies for everyone. Layered clothing is the only way to be warm in snow. And the top layer of clothing should also be water resistant. Pack up a good supply of moisturizers and lotions as the skin tends to dry up in cold weather.

* As you plan your vacation, give yourself some extra leeway while drawing up the schedule. The reason is that you may get caught up in a storm or snow or something like that. Such an event is likely to ruin all your meticulous planning. So while you draw up your plan, don’t make it too rigid.

* As you get ready to go out in the snow, make sure everyone is dressed properly. The first layer of clothing (after undergarments) should be of warm inner wear. Over them you should wear your thick shirts and trousers. A sweater is also essential. The top layer should be of a water resistant jacket or overcoat.

* Mittens, scarf, woolen cap, muffler etc are other items you may need. You should also wear thick woolen socks to keep your feet warm. Wearing two pairs of socks is not a bad idea, especially for the kids.

* A moisturizing lotion, Vaseline and sunscreen are all required when you venture out.

* Do not forget to use a hand cream or cold cream on your hands in the night.

* Watch out for patches of grey, white or waxy skin. These are signs of frostbite. Immediately get indoors and seek medical attention.

* Drink loads of hot liquids like milk, tea, chocolate and coffee. Since people tend to drink less water in cold conditions, let this be your source of fluids.

* Don’t wear too tight shoes. Before you leave for the vacation, try on your shoes with the socks that you intend to wear. If your shoes are too tight, the blood will not be able to travel to your feet. This will make sure that your feet freeze completely. So be careful about this.

* Do wear mittens. Mittens give better protection and warmth than gloves. This also makes sure that you do not walk around with both your hands in your pockets. Hands in pockets can cause accidents in snow due to loss of balance. Keep your hands warm (with mitts) and free to help you regain balance if you lose it.

* Carry a flashlight, extra batteries and a first aid kit when you go out.

* When you go out, inform the hotel desk of your plans for the day. If possible, stick with crowds.

Most of this is plain common sense. But usually we find ourselves at a complete loss when faced by a catastrophe. So it is better to be prepared for any emergencies. Take care and enjoy the snow!