4 safety tips to keep in mind when you go hiking
Hiking is generally not a dangerous activity if you prepare properly. However, there are times when you will be far away from "civilisation" and you could be injured or something else could happen. In order to hike safely, you should always consider the following safety tips.
1. Don't walk alone
This is probably not critical if you are just going for a leisurely hike around the house, but if you are venturing into the forest, the mountains, a ravine or some other rugged and isolated area, you should not travel alone.
Walking with a partner can offer many advantages. People in pairs are less likely to be overly anxious when faced with a problem or complication, and can offer each other help in climbing steep slopes, negotiating streams, climbing or other troublesome places.
If an injury occurs, the partner can walk back to the trailhead for assistance. And if necessary, it is much easier for two people to conserve body heat than for one person.
2. Plan ahead and choose the right itinerary.
Make sure you are familiar with the area you are hiking in. Even if you have never been there before, you can use maps and guidebooks to "survey" the area before you leave.
It also helps to talk to other hikers who have been there to find out if there are any rough spots you should know about ahead of time. The internet is a great resource for doing some basic research on an area, especially if you are not close to where you live.
Be sure to wear the appropriate hiking equipment. This includes basic items such as a map, compass and water, but you should also plan ahead, carry first aid supplies, some basic provisions and the right equipment in case night falls and you are still walking.
It is always better to prepare for a worst-case scenario and not need it, than to get caught up in it and find out that you were wrong and did not plan for it.
3. Check the weather
4. Exercise common sense
Hiking is a great activity, but make sure you do it with common sense. Don't get overconfident when en route and do things that are risky or foolish. Know your limits.
Make sure you tell someone else where you are going and when you expect to be back. If no one knows you're gone or where you are, they won't be able to help you if you don't return when expected.
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