Hiking
EXPLORE: Fun
Here are some things to consider doing.
Some items may not be applicable to you.
Well before:
- Plan to go with others, not alone - your companion can get help if you get hurt
- Start breaking in new shoes, boots, clothes, etc.
- Take a first aid course
- Take an orienteering course
- Plan to wear clothing to protect against poison ivy, etc., e.g., long pants, long-sleeved shirt, long socks
Shortly before:
- Ensure your name and phone number are on all items which are susceptible to being lost or stolen
- Listen to radio and/or watch TV for:
- Traffic conditions
- Weather forecast - so you can wear appropriate clothing and take appropriate gear, e.g., umbrella
- Apply lotion (e.g., barrier cream) to protect against poison ivy
- Talk to rangers, etc. about local hazards, e.g.:
- Wildlife
- Spiders
Items to take:
- Pocket knife
- First aid kit including:
- Antibiotic ointment
- Bandages
- Gauze
- Tourniquet
- Snake bite kit
- Sunscreen/sunblock
- Hat (e.g., one with cloth flap(s) and/or a wide brim - to protect your head and neck from sun exposure
- Indicator of sun intensity (some can be stuck onto your skin)
- Extra socks (cotton and wool)
- Identification - in case you become sick or injured
- Medical information - in case you become sick or injured
- Camera and film
- Pedometer
Wear:
- Clean wool socks - for cushioning) over light cotton socks - to absorb perspiration - dirty socks may cause blisters
- High leather boots/shoes - to protect and support your ankles
During:
Regularly:
- Make noise occasionally (e.g., shout, hit trees with stick, wear a bell) - so you don't surprise bears, especially a mother with cubs)
If you notice any soreness on one of your feet:
- Stop right away
If the sore spot is red:
- Tape a patch of moleskin over the spot with adhesive tape
- Change your socks
If you get a blister:
- Wash the area with soap and water
- Sterilize a needle or pin in a match flame
- Pierce the blister at an edge and let it drain
- Cover the area with a patch of sterile adhesive gauze
Thanks for reading!
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