Urinating Outside at Extreme Cold: Safety, Risk, and Survival Techniques

Urinating outside in -40 degree weather is both a topic of debate and a matter of survival. While it is technically possible, the conditions present a host of risks and challenges.

Technical Possibility and Risks

It is possible to urinate outside in such conditions, but it comes with significant risks. First, exposure to extreme cold can lead to frosting of exposed skin, causing frostbite.

Second, hypothermia poses a serious threat, especially if the urine causes your clothing to get wet. Wet clothing can rapidly lose body heat, leading to a significant drop in core temperature.

Third, the surface conditions can be hazardous, with icy or snow-covered ground making it difficult and dangerous to walk around. There is a risk of slipping and falling, which could further compound these issues.

Lastly, health risks are present as the environment can harbor bacteria or other contaminants, increasing the risk of infection. While it is a viable option in survival situations where access to a bathroom is not available, it is generally advisable to use an indoor facility if possible.

Personal Accounts and Experiences

First-hand accounts highlight the challenges and the unique experiences of urinating in such extreme cold. For instance, a person who did this in -52 degree Celsius in Siberia reported hearing strange sounds that resembled the opening of a Tchaikovsky concert. The unusual sounds were likely due to the ice formation in the urethra, rather than a health issue.

Using body temperature warm water to simulate the experiment confirmed the immediate freezing of the liquid. This supports the understanding that exposure to such cold temperatures can cause rapid freezing of urine, making it a practical but risky technique to employ.

Some survival experts share that whilst facing their back to the wind is critical for wilderness survival, the process of urination in extreme cold can be more entertaining than it can be practical. The wind can quickly chill the urine, forming ice crystals, which can be astonishing from a visual perspective. However, the act is not recommended for non-emergency situations due to the inherent risks.

Survival Tips and Best Practices

If you find yourself in a survival situation where urination outside is necessary, consider the following tips:

Cover all exposed skin to minimize the risk of frostbite. Face your back towards the wind to minimize its impact on your body. Ensure your clothing remains dry to avoid the risk of hypothermia. Choose a safe and clear area to minimize the risk of slipping. Use a low profile to avoid attracting unwanted attention.

While it may seem like a viable option in emergency situations, using urination as a means to conserve warmth and stay alive should be a last resort. The importance of hygiene and minimizing the risk of frostbite, hypothermia, and injury cannot be overstated.