Les Stroud is Survivorman.  Bear Grylls stars in Man Vs. Wild.  But when you go out hiking or camping, you won’t have a TV crew tracking your every move.  Also, likely, you’re not as trained as those guys are.  So, prepare for a hiking or camping trip to ensure your outdoor safety.  Watching a few episodes of Survivorman might help, but when it comes down to it, here are the top ten sure-fire steps you can take to be safe on your adventure in the wilds of the outdoors:

 

Outdoor Safety Tip #1:  Get a physical.  Make sure you are in good enough health to survive at least a night in the extremes of the wilderness.  Even a four-hour hike could turn into a longer ordeal, so you want to know you can handle it.  Whatever medical conditions you may have, discuss your vacation plans with your doctor.  Always carry your medication with you, and wear a MedicAlert bracelet if you have a condition such as diabetes or a severe allergy. 

 

Outdoor Safety Tip #2:  Get fit.  Exercise is always good for you, but especially before you go camping or hiking.  Also, if you are going to a place in the mountains, prepare yourself for high altitudes by drinking lots of water.

 

Outdoor Safety Tip #3:  Know where you’re going.  If you aren’t familiar with the area you are visiting, take someone with you who is.  Or at least research the area, its wildlife, weather conditions, and regulations.  Never go into an area that is closed or so remote that no one could track you.  Stay on the trail. 

 

Outdoor Safety Tip #4:  Pack accordingly.  Once you know about the conditions of the area you’re visiting, research all the supplies you might need and make sure you have everything.  Here’s the American Red Cross’ standard list of things you should pack for an outdoor trip anywhere:

 

Outdoor Safety Packing Checklist (from the American Red Cross)

  • Candle and matches
  • Cell phone
  • Clothing (always bring something warm, extra socks, and rain gear)
  • Compass
  • First aid kit
  • Food (bring extra)
  • Flashlight
  • Foil (to use as a cup or signaling device)
  • Hat
  • Insect repellent
  • Map
  • Nylon filament
  • Pocket knife
  • Pocket mirror (to use as a signaling device)
  • Prescription glasses (an extra pair)
  • Prescription medications for ongoing medical conditions
  • Radio with batteries
  • Space blanket or a piece of plastic (to use for warmth or shelter)
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Trash bag (makes an adequate poncho)
  • Water
  • Waterproof matches or matches in a waterproof tin
  • Water purification tablets
  • Whistle (to scare off animals or to use as a signaling device)

Outdoor Safety Tip #5:  Tell someone where you’ll be.  Always make sure someone knows where you are going and when you plan on coming back.  If nobody knows when to expect you, nobody would notice if you didn’t make it home –  at least, not for a few days.

 

Outdoor Safety Tip #6:  Stay connected.  Even though you want to escape into nature, it’s a good idea to carry some form of contact with “civilization.”  A GPS device or even just a cell phone may come in handy.  A cell phone may not always be in range, but a GPS device would help search and rescue teams find you within hours instead of days. 

 

Outdoor Safety Tip #7:  Watch your step.  You may be tempted to get carried away by the breathtaking view or the fascinating wildlife, but keep your eyes on where you are going.  One false step could lead to an emergency:  tripping over a root, wandering into some poison ivy, or . . . walking right off the edge of a cliff. 

 

Outdoor Safety Tip #8:  Don’t feed the bears.  Wildlife can be fascinating, but unpredictable.  Pack your food in sealed plastic containers so critters won’t be attracted to the smell of your snacks.  Be wary of any dangerous creatures that may be in the area.  Study what to do if you come across a bear or a cougar.  If there are bears in the area, consider packing some bear mace.

 

Outdoor Safety Tip #9:  Dress in layers.  Weather can change quickly, going from sunny to downpours or steamy to freezing in mere minutes.  Wear layers of clothing that you can take off or put on as needed for your optimal comfort.

 

Outdoor Safety Tip #10:  Take a buddy . . . or three.  Hiking is simply not a solo activity, as much as you might want to have some time alone with nature.  The danger of injury or getting lost while miles away from help is very real, even if you do have a cell phone and supplies.  A group of four is actually ideal.  If someone gets injured, one person can stay with  while the other two can go for help, leaving no one alone. 

 

Hiking and camping in the great outdoors is invigorating and inspiring.  It’s also a challenge.  But if you take the proper steps to ensure your outdoor safety, you can have a fantastic time away from all the trappings of big city life.  And thanks to TiVo, you can watch the latest episode of Survivorman when you get home!