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ATTENTION!
Be aware of these high altitude hazards.
Altitude Sickness:
Regardless of fitness level, "lightheadedness" and disorientation often occur
at this elevation. You may faint or underestimate other dangers. If you
experience any of these symptoms avoid physical exertion and breathing too
slow and too shallow. Exercise caution, return to a lower elevation. If
symptoms do not subside, seek medical assistance.
Lightning:
If a storm approaches, take shelter immediately or crouch low with only
your feet in contact with the ground. One of the safest places is inside
your vehicle not in the summit restrooms as they have metal roofs that attract
lightning.
Hypothermia:
When we check the weather in the summer in Colorado, we are usually given
the Denver conditions. When it is 80 degrees in Denver, it is hard to realize
that it will usually be 40 degrees on the top of Mount Evans. Why? Because
when you go up in altitude, the temperature will drop 3 to 5 degrees per
1,000 feet of elevation. Remember to stay dry, wear a coat and hat on Mount
Evans.
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