Hiking safety is to be considered on every walk. On a day hike recently we had to stop as one of our group had a blister. It was uncomfortable for the hiker as we were only about 5 kilometers into our 16 km hike and it would not have been enjoyable for the individual. Fortunately I always carry a first aid kit.

 

Hiking is usually a pretty safe activity, provides great exercise, and is fun and very socialable.  You do need to follow some basic hiking safety tips:

 

1. Always carry Adventure Medical Kits . It always surprises me how

    many hikers do not even carry the basic minimum which should

    include: 

            – Moleskin, band aids (plasters), blister treatment

            - Tensor bandage, gauze pads

            – Tweezers and needl

            – Pain medication

            – Disinfectant or antibiotic cream (such as Polysporin)

 

2. Hydration & food – Carry plenty of water or sports drinks and

    snacks such as energy bars, nuts, and bananas. Lack of energy 

    leads to making poor decisions and frankly you will not have a good

    time. 

 

3. Map & compass – carry a map of the route and understand how the

    trail is blazed.  For example  the colours in Switzerland indicate the

    level of the trail, understand that prior to starting. Also carry and

    know how to use a compass or GPS. A great resource is  The   Essential Wilderness Navigator: How to Find Your Way in the Great Outdoors

 

4. Cellular phone – to have in case of an emergency is another hiking

    safety tip.  While hiking in the Lake Como area of Italy one of our

    group slipped on a rock and could not walk. A quick call on the

    cell phone meant a car was waiting when we arrived at the

    nearby road to take the person to hospital.

 

5. Always tell someone where you are hiking. If for some unforeseen

    reason you do not return they know where to start looking. It is

    not a good idea to hike alone. If you do keep to popular hiking

    trails with lots of people in case you run into problems.

 

6.  Hiking clothes – good hiking boots and socks to prevent scrapes

     and blisters. Hike for the weather; in layers if it is cold, sun

     protection if required. Always at least a windbreaker as weather

     can change quickly, particularly in mountains. Also hiking poles can

     help.

 

7. Whistle to signal to others if in trouble, particularly when hiking in

    a group.

 

Destination specific items may include bear spray, flashlight, rope.

 

Follow these seven hiking safety tips and have an enjoyable walk.

 

 
Adventure Medical Weekender First Aid Kit
Price: $49.99
The Adventure(r) Medical Kits Weekender first aid kit is designed especially for the weekend adventurer. It can be easily carried by everyone from the family that going car-camping to the backcountry skier.

Brand: Adventure Medical Kits

 

The Essential Wilderness Navigator: How to Find Your Way in the Great Outdoors, Second Edition
Price: $13.22
Pages: 173, Edition: 2, Paperback, International Marine/Ragged Mountain Press

Originally posted 2009-10-27 12:56:59.