Can you get hypothermia even if it's not freezing cold outside?

Yes, absolutely. Hypothermia often develops in moderately cold weather—especially when you add wind, wet clothing, and tiredness. You don't need extreme conditions for it to happen.

What are the first signs someone is getting hypothermia?

Persistent, uncontrollable shivering is the main physical sign, along with fumbling hands and difficulty with zips or buckles. You'll also notice behaviour changes—they become quieter, withdrawn, and start making poor decisions like insisting they're fine when they're clearly not.

Why do people with hypothermia say they're fine when they're clearly not?

Because hypothermia affects your judgement and decision-making ability early on. By the time someone is cold enough to be in trouble, their brain is already compromised enough that they can't assess their own condition properly.

Common Hazards

Hypothermia: The Warning Signs

Hypothermia starts with shivering and poor decisions, progresses through confusion and coordination loss, and ends with collapse—but each stage looks different and your group needs to recognise them in sequence. Spotting the early signs in yourself or others and acting before someone becomes dangerously cold prevents most serious cases.

7 September 202610 min read