Warren County residents who want to enjoy the various parks and trails around the county during the winter months should keep in mind several safety aspects before heading outdoors. Naturalist Karen Johlas-Szalkowski with Warren County Conservation tells KNIA News dressing in layers is key to staying warm.
“So you want to start with a base layer, which is designed to absorb sweat off of your skin, so wear long underwear on top and bottom. Your next layer should be your mid-layer, which is supposed to add warmth, and act as an insulating layer. So the mid-layer should be a fleece, whether lightweight or a big heavier depending on how cold it is outside. And your outer layer should be the layer that protects you from the elements, you want it big enough to keep the rain or snow off of you, but you can still move around in it and do the activities you want to do.”
Johlas-Szalkowski also said to keep an eye on the weather forecast to make sure you don’t get caught in a snow, and to play it safe by turning back if snow starts. Hear more about trail safety in this Let’s Talk Indianola below.