Hiking & camping provide exercise and interest for people of any age.  Since unexpected things happen, however, the best way to help guarantee a good time for all is to plan ahead carefully and follow commonsense safety precautions.

If you have any medical conditions, discuss your plans with your health care provider and get approval before departing.

Review the equipment, supplies and skills that you'll need.  Consider what emergencies could arise and how you would deal with those situations.  Be prepared for any emergency.  Bring a First Aid Kit.  Not sure what to bring, see our Anatomy of a First Aid Kit.

Know how to read a compass, erect a temporary shelter or give first aid, if necessary.

Don't go hiking or camping alone, always go with at least one companion.

Be careful not to hike or camp on private property.

Pack emergency signaling devices.

Let a responsible adult know where you are planning on hiking.

 

Get trained in CPR & first aid.  Check out our Health & Safety Class Schedule for our upcoming classes.

Here are a few suggestions on what to bring with you.

 

candles and matches

cell phone

extra clothes

compass

first aid kit

flashlight

foil (to use as a cup or a signaling device)

insect repellent with DEET (read the label carefully if applying to young children)

map

pocket knife

mirror (to use as a signaling device)

a radio with extra batteries

sunscreen

trash bags (they make a good poncho in bad weather)

water

waterproof matches or matches in a waterproof tin

whistle (to scare off animals or to use as a signaling device)

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