By Diane Crosby

The joys of outdoor recreation are many, but, unfortunately, so are the perils. Some activities always require basic safety precautions, while others can surprise you with emergencies. Whatever fun you may choose outside the walls of your home, you must plan for the inevitable and the unlikely. 

 

For instance, when being outside for any length of time, sunscreen is a wise choice. Not only does it keep people of all skin types from experiencing uncomfortable sunburn, but it can also prevent future skin cancer issues. As those sun rays get stronger in summer, planning outdoor activities for morning and evening can be a good choice, leaving the hottest part of the day for indoor fun.

 

While some do hike in cooler weather, the trails are flooded with day and through hikers when things warm up. A short stroll on a clearly marked path may not require much in the way of specialized equipment. Most hikes, though, have the potential for injury. Even when you think you know where you are going, trails can be missed. Bring water anytime you hike. Proper footwear, a park map, a hiking stick and a charged phone can be invaluable. When hiking in mountainous areas, be aware that the weather can change rapidly as you ascend. The climate can go from a lovely summer day to winter. Dress appropriately in layers.

 

Over the years, I have seen all types of would-be hikers who were totally unprepared for their journeys. Attempting a challenging spur-of-the-moment wilderness hike creates unnecessary risk and can result in injury, fatigue and disorientation. I have made similar mistakes, taking a wrong turn, creating a two hour hike from the intended half hour stroll. Hiking too close to sunset is likewise unsafe. You don’t want to be stranded in the woods after dark. Most of all, do not go alone if you can help it. Many an experienced hiker has encountered trouble alone, some with deadly results.

 

Depending on where you are, insect repellant may be a must-have. Each section of the country has its own bugs that can pester you, aggravating your outdoor plans. We were once at a water park on the coast, and every time I came up for air, horseflies assaulted me. When in wooded areas, be very sure to tape up pants legs and use spray to avoid ticks. They are not only pests; they can cause serious disease.

 

Anytime you are boating, whether for fishing or just riding around, make certain to have life vests. Just because you can swim doesn’t mean that you can float if an accident occurs and you hit your head. In most areas, vests are required by law for your safety. Helmets are important for bike riding and are often legally required as well.

 

Swimming safety is enormously important with so many adults and children falling victim to the water each year. Teach your family to swim! However, anytime you are in fast-moving water or unknown areas, put new swimmers in safety gear. From pools to lakes to rivers to oceans, never swim alone, be on the lookout for those who are swimming and be aware of currents, undertows and tide changes. Never dive into shallows or areas of uncertain depth.

 

If you see warning signs about alligators, jellyfish, sharks or other creatures of the water, believe them! Likewise, venturing into the woods can bring surprise encounters with wildlife. Bears, in particular, are a concern. When hiking or camping in the wild, even in campsites, make noise and stow food high or inside a bear-proof container. Bear spray may be necessary. Even small animals can be problematic. We once accidentally left a covered cake pan on a picnic table, only to find a squirrel energetically chewing through the lid. 

 

Snakes, of course, are a source of concern for anyone spending time outdoors. There is absolutely no need to kill non-poisonous snakes, and it may be illegal to do so. Determining whether a snake is poisonous or not can be difficult, but letting snakes go about their business is the wisest option. If, however, you are bitten by one, seek medical treatment immediately. Carrying a snakebite kit is a good idea. Remember, any animal behaving erratically, especially one approaching you, may be rabid. Steer clear.

 

Being outdoors also means encountering troublesome plant life. While plants do not come after you, a casual brush against poison ivy, poison oak, poison sumac and others can cause weeks of itching and burn-type reactions. Become familiar with these plants, teach your children to look out for them and avoid! Never burn these, as the smoke can cause lung reactions as well.

 

Camping, whether by RV or in the wilderness, is a great way to get away from it all, but you should be likewise prepared for injuries or illness with medical help at a distance. Bring first aid kits, which include medicines for basic woes, wraps for injuries, burn remedies and tweezers. When wilderness camping, include matches for starting fires, and thoroughly extinguish those fires when leaving. Safety glasses are wise for chopping wood. It may seem overcautious, but a wood chip in the eye can be a real problem when you are far from civilization. Always remember flashlights and extra batteries. A general reminder for travel, especially for those pulling campers, is to make sure your tires are filled to the appropriate pressure before leaving on a road trip!

 

For those looking to try something more exciting than everyday outdoor activities, extreme outdoor sports may be appealing. Be sure to learn about mountain climbing, rappelling, bungee jumping, etc. from reputable, experienced guides with professional equipment. Certain destinations, even those frequented by families, can be deadly if not respected. An example would be Yellowstone National Park with its myriad geysers, hot pools, fumaroles, cliffs, river rapids, waterfalls and wild fauna. Investigate the hazards where you are headed and make sure everyone in your group appreciates them!

 

Often, we become complacent about our wonderful outdoors. It is certainly grand and majestic, but it is not a controlled theme park. The great outdoors is the real thing with its own special dangers. Be aware of them as you go, and enjoy!

 

Diane and Wiley Crosby own Red Dog Outfitters in Forsyth, Georgia. They not only sell preparedness items in their store, but they also take them along when traveling.