| Hiking can be a great outdoor vacation or adventure, | | | | Third, do not go overboard on the gear you bring |
| and usually it is not dangerous. But, you are outside | | | | but be sure to take some basic gear. Bring either |
| and often find yourself far from civilization, and you | | | | matches or a lighter, but keep in mind that lighters |
| could get injured or even worse. With that in mind, it | | | | can run out of fuel and matches can get wet. Take |
| is very beneficial to heed some basic safety tips to | | | | your pick! A knife can also be a lifesaver, in the literal |
| keep your hiking adventure a pleasant experience. | | | | sense, especially those with useful gadgets. |
| First, do not travel alone. Of course, there are | | | | A simple first aid kit can also be a lifesaver. Include |
| exceptions to every rule. If you are strolling along a | | | | bandages and gauze, anti-bacterial cream and other |
| well-traveled area, you are probably safe. But, hiking | | | | standard items. Sunburn and anti-itch reliever and |
| through a thick forested area with canyons and | | | | aspirin may also prove to be appreciated items during |
| winding trails is a different story. You could easily get | | | | the hike. |
| lost. | | | | It is, of course, important to have some knowledge |
| Traveling with someone can help in many ways, | | | | of first-aid also. For example, aspirin can at times be |
| especially if your partner has some experience with | | | | harmful. Or, if you do not know the difference |
| hiking. You can help each other up steep grades or | | | | between arterial and venous bleeding, bandages and |
| apply first-aid if needed, though hopefully not. Also, if | | | | gauze will do you no good. |
| one hiker is injured, the other can travel back to the | | | | A flashlight is a necessity, and toilet paper is just a |
| trail head to seek help. | | | | good idea! |
| Secondly, it is important to know where you are | | | | Fourth, take some basic provisions to keep you |
| going. You may want to give someone your | | | | hydrated and your energy level high. Fluids, both |
| tentative course before you leave in the event you | | | | water and sport drinks, are obviously essential. A |
| do get lost. Stay on well-traveled or clearly marked | | | | heat stroke can kill someone, but it is preventable. |
| trails, that is unless you are experienced enough to | | | | Water weighs about eight pounds per gallon so take |
| go off the main trails. | | | | what you need, but not less. |
| No, the marked trails may not be as interesting but | | | | Be sure to bring enough food for the entire hike. |
| getting lost is even less fun. A map, GPS or compass | | | | Depending on what you ring, about one pound daily is |
| is a necessity for any serious hiking trip. Since not all | | | | average for a male of medium build. |
| GPS units function in all areas, get details on your | | | | Finally, use common sense. Enjoy your hiking holiday |
| travel destination and determine if your GPS unit will | | | | and the beautiful surroundings. But, do not get carried |
| help you in that location. | | | | away and tempt Mother Nature! |