What should be avoided to prevent hypothermia?

To prevent hypothermia, avoiding alcohol consumption is essential because alcohol can impair the body's ability to regulate its temperature. When a person drinks alcohol, it causes blood vessels to dilate, which leads to an increase in blood flow to the skin's surface. While this may initially give a feeling of warmth, it actually results in a rapid loss of body heat, making an individual more susceptible to the cold. Additionally, alcohol can dull the body's natural responses to cold and reduce the awareness of how cold one feels, further increasing the risk of hypothermia.

In contrast, layering clothing is a recommended practice as it provides insulation and helps trap warm air close to the body. Warm-up exercises increase circulation and raise body temperature, making them beneficial before exposure to cold conditions. Wool socks are effective in retaining heat and keeping feet warm even when wet, as wool has excellent insulating properties. Thus, while the other options contribute positively to preventing hypothermia, avoiding alcohol is crucial for maintaining proper body temperature regulation in cold environments.