• Know your physical limitations and don't exceed them.

• Be prepared for weather changes by dressing in layers. Dressing in layers allows you to regulate your body temperature by adding or removing clothes as needed.

• Drink plenty of water, regardless of the temperature. It's possible to become dehydrated even in cold weather.

• Hypothermia, or the loss of body temperature, can occur in temperatures as warm as 50 degrees.

• Be aware of hypothermia signs. The first is stumbling or disorientation. When you notice these signs, sit down immediately and build a fire. Get yourself warm and dry.

• Be aware of frostbite. White spots on the skin are the first sign. Check the face, feet and hands regularly. It's much easier to notice the first signs of frostbite on the face if you're hunting with a companion who can alert you.

IF YOU'RE LOST:

• Don't panic. Sit down and build a fire, even if it isn't cold. A fire is soothing and will help sooth nerves.

• After calming down, try to get your bearings and think your way out of the situation. If you think you know the direction you need to travel, use the pad of paper and pencil from your survival kit and leave a note at your location, indicating name and the direction traveling. If you come across others as you're trying to find your hunting party, don't be embarrassed to stop and ask directions.

• If you're unsure about the direction you should travel, stay at your camp and build a shelter several hours before sundown, if possible. Build a smoky fire, which can be spotted from the air, or build three fires, which is a distress signal that also can be noticed from the air.

• You can live without food and water for several days.