Hiking is great, but a safer hike will make it greater. Our safety is our responsibility. Always remember, better be safe than sorry.
Here are 10 quick tips you need for a safer hike.
Before the Hike:
- Tell someone about your hiking plans
- Share your itinerary which includes the location, hike duration and who you are going with.
- Never to hike alone (unless you are that confident)
- It is always good to go in a group in case of emergencies
- Especially when you are new to hiking.
- Keep track of the weather forecast
- Take note of the weather to keep yourself prepared
- If it rains, bring along a poncho or windbreakers that helps to prevent hypothermia.
- Bring the essential items that allows you to last through your hike (depending on the hike you choose)
- Personal first aid kit
- Swiss knife
- whistle
- headlight
- enough water
- snacks
- Maps/Guide
- Compass/Cellphones
- Insect Repellent/Sunscreen
- (Reminder: Water from the river or streams MUST be boiled or treated by filtering or tablets)
- Wear / Bring the right gear
- Wear a pair of comfortable shoes that provides good support
- Appropriate clothing for the weather
- Prepare the rain gears.
- Warm Up and Start Slow
- Always remember to do adequate stretching exercises and not to rush through the hike.
During the Hike:
- Stay together as a group
- Let the slowest person to set the pace.
- Stay on the trail
- Never to take shortcuts that you are not confident of.
- Know your physical limits
- Fatigue is crucial to your safety
- Take breaks to prevent fatigue
- Know when to turn back.
- Watch your steps and your surroundings
- Forest or trails lies a lot of traps that you may trip and fall or even twist your ankle
- Be wary of wet leaves as they may conceal uneven terrains or poisonous species under them
- Aim to finish your hike before dark.
For more hiking information, visit our website at https://hikersforlife.com/sharemyhikes/home/.
