Leech Lake Blog

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How To Bring Them Outside Without Having Them Freeze To Death

Kids. One minute they’re happy and playing in the snow; the next they’ve lost both mittens and one sock and are throwing icicles at each other. We offer snowshoes, broomball equipment and more to keep those hands busy, but the risk of frostbite is still something parents worry about. How do you prevent a pleasant family outing from turning into something out of Jack London? It’s quite easy if you follow a few simple tips.

Check the forecast

This winter is expected to be milder than average for Minnesota, which means it’s an unusually good year for snowmen, sledding, and all the other fun outdoor activities. But since you can still expect (relatively) cold spells from time to time, check the temperature and precipitation before you go outside. If the windchill is minus 18 degrees or colder, frostbite can set in on exposed skin in ten minutes. You can ask at the front desk and we’ll let you know what the weather forecast is looking like.

Bring extras

Bring extra socks, extra mittens, extra everything—and in all sizes. This will ensure your second day is as fun as the first. Even if your son’s mittens are tied to his jacket, they can still get wet. Why do we keep saying “mittens” instead of gloves? They keep little fingers tucked together, which allows them to stay warmer. It also makes it harder for the kids to throw snowballs at you or hit each other with sticks. If you find yourself a little short when you stay with us, Reeds in Walker stocks gloves, hats, and all the necessities.

Stay dry

Moisture is a bigger enemy than cold. If you’re wet enough, hypothermia can set in at temperatures as high as 70 degrees. If you or your kids start getting damp, it’s time to go inside and dry off.

Don’t dress too warmly

It’s counterintuitive, but dressing too warmly can backfire. Cross country skiing or hiking through the woods will rev your heart rate and if your coat is too thick, you’ll start to sweat. When it’s time to rest, your temperature will drop fast (see previous point). If you’re going to be playing outside, dress your kids in layers and tell them to take off the big overcoats when they start tumbling around.

Stay inside

When it’s really cold (most Minnesotans would say -20 degrees, but you Floridians can take a pass at 0), well, there’s a reason civilization was invented. Stay indoors and treat the kids to a free movie rental, a pizza from the BeachFire Bar and Grille (Friday and Saturday nights), or a trip to the sauna.