Unlock Key Colorado Skills for Safe Outdoor Life

Living in Colorado is unlike living in any other state. Having lived in nine of them, I'm confident telling my friends and listeners this. It's the prettiest state in the lower 48, and if you love the outdoors, there is no place better to call home (even if the state is run by not-so-smart people).

Living in the Centennial State means knowing how to drive in the mountains, knowing how to open and aim a can of bear spray, and knowing a sun hoodie is a hiker's best friend. Let's take a look at some of the skills you told us are essential for Colorado livin'.

Layering, Altitude & Outdoor Adaptations

According to Census.gov, only 42% of the people living in Colorado were born here. Most people arrive, and to some degree, have to learn how to live here. Skills that matter include layering, understanding the altitude, and mountain-road readiness. These things can't be explained in depth because you have to learn them by doing. The Rocky Mountains, the fickle weather, and the rugged terrain can be unforgiving if you are not prepared.

Real-Life Context: Common Scenarios

Read More: What Mispronounced Words Make Colorado Sound Dumb?

So why do layering, understanding the altitude, and mountain-road readiness matter? They are all a part of everyday scenarios you'll encounter when living here. Just running errands in Colorado might mean traveling in the mountains, where the temperature can drop by 20 degrees quickly. Outdoor adventures mean altitude awareness, as it impacts your health and the weather happening around you. Mountain-road readiness means that if you can drive on it, you might need to fix a flat on it, so travel prepared.

Get our free mobile app

Everyday Colorado: Weather, Roads & Wildfire Awareness

You don't have to live in Colorado very long before you start to realize how often you'll adapt to a sudden snow squall, hike in unpredictable weather, or encounter tricky back-country roads. What skills would you add to a list of things every Coloradan should know? Tap the message button on our app to share, and remember to keep an eye on the weather, roads, and wildfires. After all, adapting is a way of life here.