LITMIR.BIZ

        Ace bandages or Spenco joint wraps

        Adhesive bandages

        Antibiotic ointment (Neosporin or the generic equivalent)

        Athletic tape

        Benadryl or the generic equivalent, diphenhydramine (in case of allergic reactions)

        Blister kit (such as Moleskin or Spenco 2nd Skin)

        Butterfly-closure bandages

        Epinephrine in a prefilled syringe (typically by prescription only, and for people known to have severe allergic reactions to hiking mishaps such as bee stings; check the expiration date)

        Gauze (one roll and a half-dozen 4-by-4-inch pads)

        Hydrogen peroxide or iodine

        Always let someone know where you’ll 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’re headed into any isolated area. Let him or her 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.

       Don’t count on a cell phone for your safety. Reception may be spotty or nonexistent on the trail, even on an urban walk—especially one embraced by towering trees or buildings.

       Always carry food and water, even for a short hike. And bring more water than you think you’ll need. (We can’t emphasize this enough!)

       Ask questions. Public-land employees are on hand 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, you usually reach a point where you have to stop and consider in which direction to head. 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’ve passed thus far, reorient yourself, and trust your judgment on which way to continue. 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 we can’t overemphasize. It may become a lifesaver if you get lost or hurt.

       Be especially careful when crossing streams. Whether you’re 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 isn’t worth risking your life for.

       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, or 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 develop, get to shelter, hot liquids, and dry clothes ASAP.

        Likewise, know the symptoms of heat exhaustion, or hyperthermia. Lightheadedness 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 deadly. 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 you can to cool down, and seek medical attention immediately.

       Most importantly, take along your brain. A cool, calculating mind is the single most important asset on the trail. Think before you act. Watch your step. Plan ahead. Avoiding accidents before they happen is the best way to ensure a rewarding and relaxing hike.