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alt="images"/> Gauze One roll and a half dozen 4-by-4-inch pads
Hydrogen peroxide or iodine
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen
Note: Consider your intended terrain and the number of hikers in your party before you exclude any article cited above. A botanical garden stroll may not inspire you to carry a complete kit, but anything beyond that warrants precaution. When hiking alone, you should always be prepared for a medical need. And if you are a twosome or with a group, one or more people in your party should be equipped with first aid materials.
General Safety
The following tips may have the familiar ring of your mother’s voice as you take note of them.
Always let someone know where you will be hiking and how long you expect to be gone. It’s a good idea to give that person a copy of your route, particularly if you are headed into any isolated area. Let them know when you return.
Always sign in and out of any trail registers provided. Don’t hesitate to comment on the trail condition if space is provided; that’s your opportunity to alert others to any problems you encounter.
Do not count on a cell phone for your safety. Reception may be spotty or nonexistent on the trail, even on an urban walk—especially if it is surrounded by towering trees.
Always carry food and water, even for a short hike. And bring more water than you think you will need. (That cannot be said often enough!)
Ask questions. State forest and park employees are there to help. It’s a lot easier to solicit advice before a problem occurs, and it will help you avoid a mishap away from civilization when it’s too late to amend an error.
Stay on designated trails. Even on the most clearly marked trails, there is usually a point where you have to stop and consider which way to go. If you become disoriented, don’t panic. As soon as you think you may be off track, stop, assess your current direction, and then retrace your steps to the point where you went astray. Using a map, a compass, and this book, and keeping in mind what you have passed thus far, reorient yourself, and trust your judgment on which way to head. If you become absolutely unsure of how to continue, return to your vehicle the way you came in. Should you become completely lost and have no idea how to find the trailhead, remaining in place along the trail and waiting for help is most often the best option for adults and always the best option for children.
Always carry a whistle, another precaution that cannot be overemphasized. It may be a lifesaver if you do become lost or sustain an injury.
Be especially careful when crossing streams. Whether you are fording the stream or crossing on a log, make every step count. If you have any doubt about maintaining your balance on a log, ford the stream instead: use a trekking pole or stout stick for balance and face upstream as you cross. If a stream seems too deep to ford, turn back. Whatever is on the other side is not worth risking your life.
Be careful at overlooks. While these areas may provide spectacular views, they are potentially hazardous. Stay back from the edge of outcrops, and make absolutely sure of your footing; a misstep can mean a nasty and possibly fatal fall.
Standing dead trees and storm-damaged living trees pose a significant hazard to hikers. These trees may have loose or broken limbs that could fall at any time. While walking beneath trees, and when choosing a spot to rest or enjoy your snack, look up!
Know the symptoms of subnormal body temperature, known as hypothermia. Shivering and forgetfulness are the two most common indicators of this stealthy killer. Hypothermia can occur at any elevation, even in the summer, especially when the hiker is wearing lightweight cotton clothing. If symptoms present themselves, get to shelter, hot liquids, and dry clothes as soon as possible.
Know the symptoms of heat exhaustion (hyperthermia). Light-headedness and loss of energy are the first two indicators. If you feel these symptoms, find some shade, drink your water, remove as many layers of clothing as practical, and stay put until you cool down. Marching through heat exhaustion leads to heatstroke, which can be fatal. If you should be sweating and you’re not, that’s the signature warning sign. Your hike is over at that point—heatstroke is a life-threatening condition that can cause seizures, convulsions, and eventually death. If you or a companion reaches that point, do whatever can be done to cool the victim down, and seek medical attention immediately.
Most important of all, take along your brain. A cool, calculating mind is the single-most important asset on the trail. It allows you to think before you act.
In summary: Plan ahead. Watch your step. Avoid accidents before they happen. Enjoy a rewarding and relaxing hike.
Watchwords for Flora and Fauna
Hikers should remain aware of the following concerns regarding plant- and wildlife, described in alphabetical order.
BLACK BEARS
Though attacks by black bears are uncommon, the sight or approach of a bear can give anyone a start. If you encounter a bear while hiking, remain calm and avoid running in any direction. Make loud noises to scare off the bear, and back away slowly. In primitive and remote areas, assume bears are present. In more-developed sites, check on the current bear situation prior to hiking.
Every now and then, you’ll see stories on the Boston news of a black bear wandering around a suburban neighborhood. It’s rare, but not impossible. Most encounters are motivated by food, as bears have an exceptional sense of smell and not particularly discriminating tastes. While this is of greater concern to backpackers and campers, on a day hike, you may plan a lunchtime picnic or munch on an energy bar or other snack from time to time. If you see a black bear approaching as you’re having lunch, it’s best to leave your lunch and be on your way. Remain aware and alert, and you should be fine.
BLACK FLIES
Black flies are not dangerous, but they are certainly pests and a maddening annoyance. The worst a black fly will cause is an itchy welt. They are most active mid-May–June, during the day, and especially before thunderstorms, as well as during the morning and evening hours. Insect repellent has some effect (especially if it contains DEET), though the only way to keep out of their swarming midst is to keep moving.
MOSQUITOES
One of the advantages of hiking in fall, winter, or early spring is the absence of biting insects. The greater Boston area certainly has its share of winged tormentors. As a rule, conditions that suppress bugs include stiff breezes, dry air, and frost. Conversely, these airborne pests love windless, humid air. When preparing for a hike, approach the bug issue as you would the weather: dress appropriately.
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