Creek Post & Nature Discussion Blog

Safety While Camping or Hiking

I just finished reading a tragic story of a a 23 year old American female traveling in Nepal who has been missing since for over two months. The FBI is now involved and foul play appears all by imminent. This young who was last seen on a nature hike in an area just south of the Tibetan border; authorities have little to go own. Investigators are trying to determine what happened. Many fear that she was murdered, others believe she's been kidnapped by an underground sex-trade ring that is responsible for the abduction of nearly 15,000 women per year in Nepal.

So what are some proactive steps that you can take to keep yourself safe while hiking, camping or enjoying the great outdoors.

Safety and Personal Security While Hiking and Camping

• As a rule, ALWAYS hike or camp with at least one companion. If you are hiking or traveling to a remote area have a minimum of four people in your group.
• Be sure to pack emergency flares or some type of signaling device.
• Locate a place that you can go to for help if necessary.
• Always leave a copy of your itinerary with a family member or trusted friend. This should be a detailed list and include directions, names, addresses, contact information, license plate of vehicle
• Know the rules of the place you plan to visit. Research regulations about campfires, pets, and wildlife to name a few.
• Obtain a map of the area from a Park Ranger, keep it in your backpack or on your person at all times.
• Protect yourself using a non-lethal self defense product such as pepper spray or mace.
• Chances are good that you will come in contact with potentially dangerous wildlife. Learn what animals to expect encounter and how to avoid danger.
• Bears and snakes are the main threat to humans. Consider carrying a bear spray or repellent for defense against dangerous bear attacks. You should be able to identify poisonous snakes that are prevalent in th area.
• Poison oak can put an end to hiking and camping fun quickly. Know what it looks like and do your best to stay clear. Plan ahead by packing a poison oak treatment.

Dealing With Emergencies

• Take care get your doctors approval prior to setting out
• Don't forget to fill and pack a 30 day supply of all necessary prescription and non-prescription drugs.
• You need to take a good first aid kit with you. If you have one make sure that contents have not expired.
• Camping and hiking is physically demanding, be sure your fitness level will allow you to safely take the trip.

Skills, Supplies and Equipment

• Camping and hiking skills are acquired over time. If you are new to it educate yourself with books, websites and other resources.
• Pay attention to the weather. Make sure you are prepared for the expected weather.
• Cold weather gear should always be part of your wardrobe, just in case conditions change.
• Plan for the worst case, what if the weather was bad and forced you to spend the night outside unexpectedly

Essentials To Bring

Some items you need to pack:

1. plenty of water and purification tablets or filters
2. first aid kit; a whistle;
3. any needed medications
4. sunscreen
5. radio with extra batteries
6. map
7. pocket knife
8. signal mirror
9. cell phone
10. candles and matches in a waterproof container
11. flashlight
12. sunglasses and a hat for
13. sun protection
14. insect repellent
15. extra clothing, like extra sox and rain gear
16. maps and compass
17. extra food; nylon filament, extra pair of prescription
    glasses; space blanket; trash bags, which can be used as ponchos or ground cover.

About the Author:
Bryan Buckner is a top self defense & surveillance consultant and business owner. He opened Guardian Self Defense & Security Products LLC in 2005. Since that time Guardian has successfully helped over 32,000 (and counting) consumers and small businesses improve their security situation. Proud members of the South Louisiana Better Business Bureau.