There’s nothing more refreshing than a hike through the woods. However, even the most experienced hikers must follow basic safety rules. Not following these basic measures can increase the risk of danger, injury, or worse.
It is always better to be prepared for the worst, especially when one is alone in the wilderness. Here are a few basic safety precautions to follow on your next hiking adventure.
Hike with a Buddy
While it’s not unheard of for hikers to go off on solo adventures, the safest option will always be hiking with one or more buddies. Having a hiking buddy ensures you are not alone in an emergency.
For those who prefer to hike alone, ensure that somebody knows where you are every step of the way. This way, should you fail to report in by a given time, they know where to send help.
Make a Plan
Planning is one of the most critical steps in hiking, though it is usually not as frequently discussed. Planning involves picking the trails, establishing an intended timeline, and knowing what to pack. It should also always include informing at least one outside party member (somebody not joining the hike) of the itinerary so that they may check in as needed.
The emergency plan is one part of the planning process that should never be overlooked. All hiking plans should come with an emergency plan. Sometimes the emergency can be as simple as a surprise rainstorm. Regardless of the crisis, it is always good to have a backup plan.
Know Your Limits
Knowing your limits is critical for any athlete, hikers included. It’s always good to know when to stop for the day or take a break while hiking. Furthermore, being honest about your limitations can prevent you from taking on too much.
Far too many inexperienced hikers have begun a journey to find themselves stuck, too tired to move on, and too far from civilization to safely turn back. By knowing your limits, you can help avoid this sort of situation.
Pack the Essentials
Finally, hikers must pack the essentials. Every group of hikers should have the basic supplies they need. These supplies include a first aid kit, navigational tools (GPS, map, compass, etc.), sun protection, repair kits, food, water, emergency shelter supplies, matches/lighters, and a good jacket. The number of supplies needed will vary depending on the group’s size, so be sure to keep this in mind.