As you might expect of someone who works in the insurance industry, I’ve been doing my own risk assessments. If you’re set to trek 60 odd miles across Arctic ice in temperatures as low as minus 40oC, it’s best to have a think about what you’re letting yourself in for – and plan for it.
By far the biggest danger I face is open water. Tumble into that and I’m in trouble because in such extreme conditions it’s very difficult to get the body warm enough again to survive. The only mitigation is that if the worst comes to the worst, our sleds are designed to float so I can clamber aboard to escape the water. We’ll need to try and avoid open water channels, known as “leads.” These are open channels of water which run through the ice and we’ll be really dependent upon the experience and expertise of our Team Leader, Rune, to steer clear of them. Polar skis are also among our risk management armoury. Of course our polar skis will help to spread our human load on any thin ice we encounter – they’re wider than normal skis and are designed for cross-country trekking rather than for winning the downhill slalom.
An obvious and ever-present danger is the cold. We will never be warm. Even when in our tent we can expect temperatures of between minus 25oC to minus 35oC which is more than cold enough to freeze human flesh, especially extremities such as fingers and toes. That’s why I’ve spent so long researching and shopping for specialist clothing and equipment such as the three layers of gloves which will protect my hands (see the previous blog entry for more on the kit I’m taking with me).
Next on the danger list are polar bears. If you’re a fan of a particular brand of mint (or for older readers, a particular brand of frothy soft drink) you might think these beasts are lovable, cuddly things. Trust me they are far from it. They are in fact highly effective killing machines, combining great speed and strength with precisely no fear of humans. We’ll be constantly aware of the menace they present and will be armed with flares and pepper spray to deter any interest they may show in our expedition. Ultimately, should we come under attack we can protect ourselves with heavy calibre rifles loaded with specialist high-energy ammunition – but to wield these, our survival would really have to be threatened.
Our isolation is the final major concern. Should any of our small party fall ill, it could take up to four days for medical assistance to arrive. We will take our own medical supplies but these will necessarily be limited to what we can pull and freeze. Practising what I preach I am of course insured to cover the cost of emergency repatriation should this be required.
By chance I was able to discuss what I might expect with a couple of fellow members of the Explorer’s Club. I last week attended a meeting of the British Chapter at which Dr. Don Walsh gave a lecture on his record breaking deep sea dive down seven miles. His inspiring talk, which marked the 50th anniversary of a feat which remains unbeaten, was followed by a dinner over which I was able to chew the ear of other members who have successfully completed polar expeditions. It reminded me of the extreme nature of this challenge and why I must remember that this something I’m attempting, not something I can guarantee achieving.
Of course I’ll be giving it my all, not least because my chosen charities, Riders for Health and BASIC are set to benefit. This brings me to my usual reminder that there’s no better time than now to donate. Please do give as generously as you can by clicking on the links below.
http://www.justgiving.com/DavidNewmanNorthPoleRiders
http://www.justgiving.com/DavidNewmanNorthPoleBASIC
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Best wishes,
David.
