Stay Safe
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 a description of your car and when you plan to return.
- Travel as a group of four people; this way, if one is hurt, another can stay with the victim while two go for help.
Be in good physical condition
- Set a comfortable pace as you hike.
- Travel the pace of the slowest member of the group.
Wear appropriate clothing
- Wear good hiking or walking shoes.
- In winter wear layers.
- In summer bring lots of water.
Be weather wise
- Be aware of current and predicted weather conditions.
- 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.
- 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.
Alcohol and cliffs, water, of high heat don't mix!
- If you drink, stay away from the cliffs, deep or fast moving water, and have access to water in summer.
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.