Safety - Outdoor and Recreation
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The most effective way to prevent mishaps is to adequately prepare
for the trip. Knowledge of the area, weather, terrain, limitations
of your body, plus a little common sense can help to ensure a safe
and enjoyable trip.
Travel with a companion
You don't want to be by yourself in case of an emergency. Leave
a copy of your itinerary with a responsible person. Include such
details as the make, year, and license plate of your car, the equipment
you're bringing, the weather you've anticipated, and when you plan
to return. If you'll be entering a remote area, your group should
have a minimum of four people; this way, if one is hurt, another
can stay with the victim while two go for help. If you'll be going
into an area that is unfamiliar to you, take along someone who knows
the area or at least speak with those who do before you set out.
If an area is closed, do not go there. Know ahead of time the location
of the nearest telephone or ranger station in case an emergency
does occur on your trip.
Be in good physical condition
Set a comfortable pace as you hike. A group trip should be designed
for the weakest member of the group. If you have any medical conditions,
discuss your plans with your health care provider and get approval
before departing. Make sure you have the skills you need for your
camping or hiking adventure. You may need to know how to read a
compass, erect a temporary shelter, or give first aid. Practice
your skills in advance. If your trip will be strenuous, get into
good physical condition before setting out. If you plan to climb
or travel to high altitudes, make plans for proper acclimatization
to the altitude.
Think about your footing while traveling
Think about your footing while traveling near cliffs. Trees and
bushes can't always be trusted to hold you. Stay on developed trails
or dry, solid rock areas with good footing.
Wear appropriate clothing
Wear appropriate clothing for the trail conditions and season.
Check your equipment
Keep your equipment in good working order. Inspect it before your
trip. Do not wait until you are at the trailhead. Be sure to pack
emergency signaling devices.
Be weather wise
Keep an eye on current and predicted weather conditions. In this
area, weather can change very quickly. Know the signs for approaching
storms or changing weather conditions. Avoid bare ridge tops, exposed
places, lone trees, streams, and rocks during lightning storms.
Find shelter in a densely forested area at a lower elevation. Even
in the summer, exposure to wind and rain can result in hypothermia.
Learn basic first aid
Learn basic first aid so you will know how to identify and treat
injuries and illnesses. Carry a first aid kit with you. Learn how
to identify the symptoms of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, hypothermia,
and dehydration, and know how to treat them.
Make camp before dark
Traveling after darkness has resulted in many accidents from falls,
so travel only during daylight. Set up camp well away from the edge
of cliffs, and learn the terrain during daylight. If you have to
leave camp after dark, stay in areas you have seen in daylight,
go with a friend, and always use a good flashlight.
Be alert for slippery areas
Be alert for slippery areas and take your time to avoid tripping.
Low-hanging branches and variable terrains make running unsafe,
and leaves can hide slippery areas underneath.
Alcohol and cliffs don't mix!
If you drink, stay away from the cliffs. Judgment, agility, and
balance are all reduced by alcohol consumption.
Think before you drink!
No matter how clean or pure stream water looks, it's likely to
contain water-borne parasites and microorganisms that can cause
discomfort and sometimes serious illness. Pack your water in, or
purify through chemical treatment.
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