Hypothermia on the Trail: Emergency Blanket Care

In a simulated hiking scenario, each group must protect a classmate who has rolled an ankle and can't walk from the cold. Students work on insulating from the ground, using an emergency blanket correctly, layering the group's clothing and monitoring until help arrives.

How to play

1. Intro (3 min): the teacher explains that the ground and wind steal more heat than the air and shows how to unfold an emergency blanket without tearing it.
2. Groups of 5 with a packed backpack; one student plays the casualty sitting on the field.
3. Insulate (3 min): the group slides yoga mats and empty backpacks under the casualty without moving the injured ankle.
4. Cover (4 min): wrap the body with the emergency blanket, cover the head with a hat or hood and add the group's jackets on top.
5. Monitor (3 min): one student notes every minute how the casualty is responding while the group forms a windbreak.
6. Rotate (4 min): switch casualties with a new case while the teacher checks the blanket has no gaps.
7. Wrap-up (3 min): discuss red flags, such as shivering that stops or confusion, and what not to do, like giving alcohol or rubbing the skin.

Rules

• Don't move the injured leg while placing insulation.
• Handle the emergency blanket with care and fold it afterward for reuse.
• Never give alcohol or rub the skin of someone who is very cold.
• If the casualty feels claustrophobic, uncover their face.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: the student directs the group and logs the casualty's condition from a wheelchair.
• Autism or touch sensitivity: be the one keeping the log instead of being wrapped.
• Advanced students: compare hand temperature before and after with a contact thermometer if available.

Learning goals

• Protect an injured person from the cold outdoors.
• Use an emergency blanket and the group's gear correctly.
• Recognize signs of hypothermia and mistakes that make it worse.

Equipment for a class of 25

• emergency space blankets: 5
• yoga mats: 10
• backpacks: 5

Teacher tip

Remind students the blanket works either side out; what matters is closing it well. This lesson is great prep before a hiking trip.

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