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Familiarize yourself with local hazards.Before you set out, you need to be aware of the unique dangers that the area poses to hikers. Is there poison oak to watch out for? Rattlesnakes? Bears? Is it wasp season? What do you do if you're stung?
- Lightening preparedness is a critical part of hiker safety. Learn to identify and find the appropriate shelter in the event of a lightning storm.
- If you are going about 6,000 feet know how to recognized acute mountain sickness and how to manage it.
- Make sure you know basic first aid for things like cuts, scraps, and broken bones.
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Always go with a group.country hiking needs to happen in a group, unless you're a very experienced hiker. Aim for a small group of like-minded friends, between 2-5 people for a safe hiking trip your first time out. Ideally, you'll want to have an experienced hiker who is familiar with the area you're hiking.
- If you are experienced, you have the opportunity to introduce a newcomer to the wonders of backpacking. If you have never been backpacking, you might want to consider going on your first trip with an experienced hiker.
- It's best if your camping partners are somewhat compatible in terms of hiking speed, distance they are willing to hike, and camping style. Some people like to travel lightly and hike long distances. Others prefer just getting out of sight of the car.
- If you travel solo make sure someone knows your plans and that you have the equipment and skills to be self-sufficient.
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Carry more than enough water to get you from one source to the next.Water is heavy, but critical on a hiking trip. You need to bring enough water so that everyone has at least 2 liters of clean water to drink each day, especially if you're working hard and sweating on your hike.
- If you are using a water filter, bring replacement parts, including replacement filters. They often clog with sediment, or just plain break.
- Boiling water for at least one minute is an effective backup method, in an emergency.