Actually, you should maintain the core of the body with extra insulation and wrapped heat packs if at all possible, not the extremities. As it has been mentioned in previous posts, wet cotton clothing should be removed. Depending upon the type of other fabrics (wool, polypro, fleece) worn, it may be better to wring out the excess water and leave the damp clothing in place, especially if you can add layers of insulation, add wrapped heat packs and then wrap everything (patient, clothing and/or insulation) with a vapor/wind barrier such as a plastic tarp, plastic trash bag or plastic sheeting.

Rewarming or insulating the extremities can be dangerous, in that the blood vessels in the extremities will start to dilate, causing cooled blood to be transported to the core where life-threatening cooling can occur. Pete

I think I said the same thing only different, lessee:

You want to keep the core temp up, but keep the extremities well insulated. Keeping the overall body temp up requires that the core temp be maintained. If the person is warm but in shock, then preserving the temp by insulating the extremities will keep the temp from falling off, as well as providing more comfort to the individual.

Now if there's a problem with having enough insulation or too much exposure to the elements, then it is going to take all of your effort just to keep core temps up. There, that should qualify it a little better. Core temps first, extremities if possible. That fits what I said before.

Thanks Pete for helping me clear that up.

Max, can you point me to some of those alternatives? Since we both are from Germany, I thought you might know some local stores or brands. TIA <img src="images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I usually buy from local stores for camping or sports equipment. I´m sure you´ll find some in your area. Globetrotter has a good online shop with fair conditions. I like their customer reviews on gear. I don´t receive money or perks for recommending them.
Foam pads are better for isolating the body from the ground (both heat loss and moisture). Foam pad examples can be found when you follow the link. No name foam pads from the local stores are pretty cheap and durable enough. If you plan to have it in a kit, you should not select selfinflating pads as they should not be stored deflated. A blanket or a sleeping bag would be fine to cover the body. When you have a poncho it can be used to protect a person against rain or snow. The bulk and weight of this gear is obviously too much to be carried all the time. It would be good for a car kit though. I used to have this gear in my car.

Max, thanks for your feedback. I have a foam pad in my car, but I'm looking for something better than a space blanket to carry around on day hikes. I know of the two other versions Globetrotter is selling, but besides those, do you know of any other alternatives for a lightweight blanket?

I would look at this
http://www.outdoorplay.com/store/Product3.0.asp?SKU=ESA_NSTLB

I have one, although I have not had the chance to use it. Pete

Thanks Pete, that doesn't look like it's too bulky. Do you know the approximate size and weight?
Joern

Thanks Maggot, found the sportsman's blanket. It does look a lot more robust, yet still compact and light enough to carry at all times. Might be a good compromise.

From the REI web site:
Specs
Specification Description
Suggested use Emergency shelter
Weight 6.5 ounces
Dimensions 84 x 36 inches
Material Thermo-Lite
Capacity/Volume 1 person

Aslo check these other items

http://www.rei.com/online/store/Category...egoryId=4500522

Pete

I settled for the thin foam pad with the straps and the aluminium coat and a poncho. The pad does not add too much bulk and almost no weight. The pad is waterproof so it can travel strapped to the outside of my backpack. The poncho is my standard rain gear so it adds neither bulk nor weight. The space blanket can be used as a layer under the poncho.