Because there is a large amount of fluid loss in the cold, you should drink a minimum of 3.5 quarts of water a day when heavy physical activity is involved. Water is usually available either from streams or lakes or by melting snow or ice. A limiting factor may be fuel needed to melt the snow or ice. To save time and fuel, water should be obtained from running streams or a lake. The milky water of glacial streams must be allowed to stand until the sediment settles. When a hole is cut into the ice to get water, it should be covered by a snow block or something similar to slow refreezing.

Ensure that as much of the daily liquid intake as possible is hot drinks, such as soups and cocoa. Your local command may request a special food allowance of warming and cooling beverages. Main meals should begin with soup, and between-meal snacks should include a hot drink.

When running water is not available, ice or snow must be melted. Ice produces more water in less time than snow. When melting snow, first put a small amount into the cooking pot; then more can be added. Continue this process until there is enough water. It must be purified by boiling rapidly for 15 minutes.

When heating water, use all available stoves, since this is a most time-consuming operation. Melting and boiling enough snow for a drink may take 30 to 40 minutes. Areas designated for ice or snow that is to be used for water must be sited far upwind of the latrine and garbage disposal sites. Before going to bed, ensure that stoves are filled and enough water has been prepared for breakfast. Do not let other soldiers eat snow or ice; doing so lowers the body's core temperature.

Never drink alcohol on operations or when exposed to low temperatures. The aftereffects of alcohol can lead to a feeling of false security. You may forget the main rules to prevent cold injury, like wearing your gloves or not going outside without shoes to relieve yourself.