With wind chills that can reach well below zero and snowbanks big enough to trap cars, Laramie winters require some preparation.
Winter jackets, thick socks, snow boots and gloves are all protective clothing items that are necessary in temperatures below freezing.
According to the CDC, some important steps to take prior to entering the winter months include checking your home’s heating system and investing in appropriate clothing to wear in the cold.
“Frostbite happens really quick. You can have really warm gear, but if it’s not the right kind of gear, it’s just going to make you sweat,” Murdoch’s clothing manager, Mayra Edwards, said. “In order to function, you need to be able to stay warm.”
Edwards said that wool socks are useful in the winter because they pull moisture away from the feet and disperse it, preventing them from getting cold.
One student, Meiqi Jiang, said that carrying a bottle of hot tea or coffee helps in the cold, and layering keeps her warm.
“I dress appropriately with winter gear including gloves, hats or ear warmers, and scarves and boots,” Jiang said. “Especially during the pandemic and flu season, dressing appropriately for the weather prevents you from getting sick. When your immune system is compromised, you’re more likely to catch the virus.”
Edwards also said that layering is important during winter months.
“You can use base layers such as Under Armour or what we call long johns. If you layer, you can always take clothes off if you get too warm, but then you can always be warm if it gets really cold,” Edwards said.
Laramie resident John Brennan, who snowboards frequently during the winter season, said that anyone who spends time outside during a Laramie winter should layer up.
“My go to layering system in late season is a wool base layer, a fleece mid layer, a down jacket and a windproof or waterproof jacket for my upper layer,” Brennan said. “I also bring long thermal underwear to put underneath my fleece lined pants, gloves and a thick wool beanie.”
Edwards said that it is important to have a solid winter coat, such as a Carhart or Colombia jacket, that fits you well and has room for layers underneath.
Wearing the proper clothing and utilizing layering techniques are key actions to take if you are going outdoors in the Laramie cold.
The CDC also recommends preparing an emergency winter kit to keep in your car including a cell phone charger, items to help you stay warm, a flashlight and a first-aid kit.
Those who plan to travel during the winter are cautioned to pay attention to weather conditions and avoid travelling if warnings have been issued by the National Weather Service.
Read more winter safety information from the CDC at the following link: https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/features/winterweather/index.html
