Safety Precautions for Hikers
Planning a challenging, refreshing, or basic hike? No matter the difficulty
level, distance, or obstacles involved, it is important to make sure you
stay safe on the trails. Southern California offers plenty of beautiful
scenery to explore and hike through. Make sure you enjoy it properly by
keeping your own safety a priority!
Top 5 Safety Precautions to Remember:
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Hike with a “buddy” when at all possible. If you choose to hike alone, make sure someone knows where you are headed
and when you should be expected back (and check in with them when you
do return).
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Avoid venturing off the beaten path. Staying on marked trails is important, regardless of how familiar you think
you are with an area. Shortcuts can also cause erosion and damage to the
environment.
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Stay hydrated and bring drinking water. Orange County may have perfect weather most of the year, but on the trails
you’ll find that staying hydrated in the hot sun is vital. Bring
water with you and drink plenty ahead of time.
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Know where you are going ahead of time. Check out the trail you plan to hike ahead of time to know what you are getting into. Will
you need to be prepared for steep slopes or is it more of a casual stroll?
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Keep an eye out for poison oak. Make sure you know how to identify poison oak ahead of time to prevent
touching it. If you do, wash the area right away with some mild soap and
water (water if that is all that you have). Pat dry the area with a clean towel.
Other great tips to keep in mind include dressing appropriately for the
weather and specific hiking area, bringing a light snack for longer trails,
and playing it smart with your physical abilities.
Hiking can be fun, relaxing, and a great way to stay healthy and connect
with nature. By keeping these key precautions in mind, you can ensure
that your hiking experience is enjoyable and profitable!
This article contains general information about medical conditions and
treatments. The information is not advice and should not be treated as
such. The information is not intended to replace the advice or diagnosis
of a physician.
If you have any specific questions about any medical matter you should
consult your doctor or other professional healthcare provider.