Backpacking trip safety tips

Your life could depend on what you do before you hit the trail this summer.

In many cases, even the most seasoned backpacker or hiker does not think about setting up a safety plan before they leave for their trip. Sure, you’re excited about getting out into the wilderness and enjoying your trip, but do not ignore these simple tips that could possibly save your life.

These people should have a detailed itinerary of your trip.

First, leave a map detailing the area with your contacts. Be sure to highlight the trails that you will be using and where you will be entering the wilderness and also where you plan on exiting at.

Make sure that your contacts have information such as the license number of your vehicle and a good description including your VIN number, where you will be leaving your vehicle while your on the trails, and how many days you will be gone.

Leave detailed information with your contacts on what you will be wearing, the color and type and size of your pack and what identification you will be carrying. Most importantly, let these people know where the area ranger station is, and the phone number of that station so in an emergency they can call the Ranger that is closest to where you began your backpacking trip. It doesn’t hurt to also leave the number for the ranger station in the area where you will exit also.

Make sure that if you are delayed do not sound the panic button until at least six hours have lapsed.

That extra six hours will allow you ample time in case of a delay on your trip but still not to much time will have lapsed if indeed you are lost or hurt on the trail.

Be sure to acquire your wilderness pass and check in with the ranger station before you leave, that way the rangers have a good description of you if indeed you do get lost in the wilderness.

NEVER TRAVEL ALONE.

The one biggest mistake anyone on the trail can make is to be alone. You must hike and pack with a reliable person in case of injury, animal attack or illness. After all, one of you would have to get help. Safety in numbers is key when in the backcountry.

Be sure to talk over a safety plan with the person you are hiking with.

Be Prepared.

Never leave a note attached to your auto about your trip or when you will be back. This could make you very easy prey for a car thief, or someone who is unsavory to take advantage of you when you return from the mountain.

If the space is available park as close to the ranger station as you can as an extra safety note. You finally make it up the trail and are on your way to the wilderness.

Turn and Look behind you frequently. Why?

If you turn to look back frequently you will remember what the trail looks like and you can be assured that you will remember the trail as you return back down the mountain.

It is very easy to get lost and if you memorize the area, the chances are excellent that you will be able to get yourself out of a possible pinch if the occasion arises.

There is no excuse for not knowing how to read a map or use a compass in the wilderness. If you do not know, do not go up the mountain. Like I said, after a while the area all begins to look the same. It is easy to get turned around even after stepping off the trail for just a minute. Please know your compass and your maps. This is a true lifesaver.

Your most important assets on the mountain are matches in a waterproof case and a dependable lighter.

Where would you be without fire?

Do not fool yourself into thinking that just because the weather seems good all day that you will not have a freak snow or rainstorm. Fire makes heat. You do not want to be wet and cold on the mountain. Hypothermia can set in quickly and, YES, even in the summer months.

Fire can also keep away any unwanted visitors such as the animals of the area. And fire of course you need to cook meals with. Fire is very important.

A plastic tarp could again be a lifesaver. A tarp will provide shelter, keep you away from any nasty elements. A tarp can be used to carry your partner off the mountain in case of injury. A tarp can also be used for gathering water.

This is again another lifesaving item. The simple use of common sense makes for a better trip. Do not attempt rugged terrain that could cause a rock slide and carry you down the side of a mountain with it. If it looks dangerous, stay clear of it.

Drink plenty of water. Hydration is very important, drink before you are thirsty.

If you wait until you are thirsty that is to late because you could already be in the process of becoming dehydrated. Never be without fresh drinking water.

This summer, be sure to use these tips and have a safe and wonderful backpacking or hiking experience.