Just Makes Good Sense

You might think that trail safety isn't a major concern. Why would it be? You're going hiking with a group of seasoned hikers who know where they are at all times or do they? This group can also provide help in the event you need medical assistance...maybe?

Anytime you step into unfamiliar woods for a hike then you need to be prepared for the worse without regard to how prepared others that hike with you might be. Preparation starts months in advance of a trip. Here's some pre-trip activites that may save your life or others:

• Learn how to read a topographic map. The AT, in most parts, is well marked but it doesn't take but a few steps to be 'off trail' and lost or disoriented. Getting lost in the woods can be frightening at best. A topo map of the area being hiked can serve as a way for you to orient yourself back to the trail.
• Learn how to use a compass. A compass can help you determine your direction of travel as well as help plot a new direction of travel while allowing you to get back to your start point with relative ease.
• Put together a first aid kit. You can purchase one already assembled or you can gather the items from scratch. Your kit should include necessary items for cuts, scratches, headache, diarrhea, pain relief, sprains and the like. Once you have it organized, stow it in your pack in an easy and assessable location. Always put it in the same spot. If you are injured and have to communicate it's whereabouts to someone helping you, it just makes it easy to find.

Your preparation ahead of a trip can make a difference for you when in the woods. Remember, safety first!