More people are now hitting the trails than ever before. This is great, but unfortunately, the explosion of enthusiasm for hiking has led to a huge increase in accidents. Experts and novices often run into trouble when they are simply not prepared, and if you want to make sure that you are not one of them, then this is the guide for you.
Take a First-Aid Kit
Some paracetamol and a gauze pad or two will not cut it if something did go wrong when you are out hiking or travelling. Your personal kit should include things like this, but it should also contain antihistamines, sunscreen, antiseptic pads and antibiotic cream. It should also contain things such as scissors, hand sanitizer and tweezers. You should also have a bandage and a splint, in case you need to address any fractures. For group trips, consider taking some latex gloves, some skin-closure strips and of course, some medical tape. If possible, you should also try and take a first-aid kit with you. If you can do this, then you will soon find that you can protect yourself in a serious situation. If you need some help then why not consider taking a CPR recertification online course?
Wildlife-Proof Food
Protecting your food from any wildlife is crucial. It is essential for your safety as well as the safety of the animals you may encounter. Try and keep any food or scented items, such as toilet roll, in a canister that is bear-proof. Many canisters can be hard work to pack, but there are some that are designed to slip into your canvas backpack. This can help you to distribute the load amongst everyone and you can also really make it easier for yourself. If you are going to grizzly country, then cook 200 feet away from your camp and also store your canister this distance away too.
Take a Map
Search and rescue missions often happen because people get lost. Stay found by always planning your route ahead of time. You should also make sure that you take a map with you and that you tell others where you are going. Sure, you might not think that you need a map if you have a GPS device, but this is not true at all. If you do have a GPS device, then this will help you out but only if you have signal. The second this goes, you will be on your own.
Stay on the Trail
Believe it or not, you can reduce your chances of getting lost quite a lot if you simply stay on the established path. It is amazing how fast you can become disoriented when you are in a dense landscape or even a forest. If you go off the trail, then you can erode landscape and you may also find that you damage some of the fragile plant life. This is the last thing that you need, so stay on the trail where you can. Wildlife will be used to seeing people on the trail, but other than that, you may end up spooking them and putting yourself in a dangerous situation.
