Nothing beats the fresh air and the peace and quiet of nature. As you head outdoors this summer, follow our hiking and camping safety guidelines to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Bring a relative or friend
Hiking with a family member or friend is safer than hiking alone. If there is an emergency, one of you can get help.
Share your itinerary and contact information with someone who will not take the trip if you are injured or lost.
early search
Hiking or camping in a state or national park can be a great option with rangers working. Park rangers can share information about the wildlife you may encounter, recent changes to the terrain, toxic plants and flowers, and the best trails for your group.
Determine if and where you can access the water along the flight (don’t forget the water filter or sanitizer tablets).
start small: If you are new to hiking or camping, choose a shorter, easier trail to acclimatize to outdoor activities.
Know where you are going
Bring navigation supplies, such as a GPS, compass, or map. Stay on the designated path.
Make a contingency plan
Decide in advance what you will do if there is an emergency. If the park has cell phone service, bring a fully charged cell phone and a portable charger. If there is no cell phone service, bring a personal GPS beacon or satellite phone. If you are in a national or state park, ask the ranger in advance about the best way to get help if you need it.
It’s also a good idea to pack a whistle. The global distress signal is three whistle bursts.
Pack enough food
Pack at least an extra day’s worth of non-perishable foods, like bacon, crackers, and granola bars.
Bring a first aid kit and repair kit with you
Stock your first aid kit with elastic bandages, adhesive bandages, antiseptic, tweezers, and any medications you take daily or need in an emergency, such as insulin or an epinephrine injection pen.
Other things to bring:
- Pack scissors, duct tape, and a knife into your toolkit for on-the-go repairs.
- Pack emergency shelter, lighting and fire supplies
- Pack emergency shelter when hiking, such as a tarp, tent, emergency space blanket, or seat bag.
- If you are going camping, bring a waterproof tent, a sleeping bag, and an air mattress or mattress pad (choose one that folds easily).
- Bring lighting, such as a headlamp (ideal because it’s hands-free), a flashlight, or a lantern.
- Also include firefighting supplies, such as fire starters, waterproof matches, or lighters.
proper dress
Choose hiking shoes that are supportive and have good grip to avoid rolling your ankle. Wear hiking socks made of synthetic fibers or wool instead of cotton. Cotton retains moisture and can cause sore feet more easily. If you’re new to hiking or camping, visit an outdoor supply store and ask for help choosing the right hiking boots for your needs.
Pack appropriate insulating materials for the season, such as a rainshell, hat, jacket, or thermal underwear.
Protect your skin from sunlight and insects
Apply broad spectrum SPF 30 sunscreen and reapply every two hours. Also, don’t forget your wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Take plenty of breaks, stay hydrated and seek shade as much as possible.
Apply insect spray to your clothing and equipment to avoid mosquitoes and ticks. Check yourself and others for ticks every day. If you notice a tick on your skin, remove it immediately with tweezers.
Be careful and flexible
During the second half of your trip, you may feel fatigued and be more likely to slip, fall or stumble. When your energy is low, go slower and watch your footing. Take breaks as needed and stay well hydrated.
Also, be prepared to go back if necessary. If the trail is very difficult or the storm is advancing, it may be safer to turn back. The point of camping or hiking is to enjoy yourself, so don’t stress yourself out too much.
If you have questions about your general health or ability to walk, see your primary care provider. To find a provider near you, visit www.pardeehospital.org.
Simon Schlegel is a Certified Physician Assistant at Pardee Urgent Care.