Hiking is a popular sport all around the world. Many forests can be reached without a lot of driving, regardless of where you live. There is not a high cost associated with tromping through the woods. The wildlife and terrain can add fun and adventure to your hike. With all the excitement and exercise you can get from going hiking for the day, it is important to prepare for the possible dangers that exist as well. Being properly geared can make the difference between a good hiking day and a bad one.
Preparation
Think safety before the hike. Check the weather before you go hiking, and change your provisions as needed. If it looks like there may be rain, make sure to take a poncho and an extra pair of socks. If it is going to be very hot, take extra water. Take a piece of aluminum foil and place it on a towel or thick carpeting. Step on it. This will make an imprint of your footprint. Leave your footprint mold at home. If you get lost, this footprint will help rescuers find you easier.
Provisions
Pack the right provisions. The most important thing to take when you go hiking is water. Avoid drinking the water from streams and other natural water sources unless you have a way to treat the water first. Untreated water can make you sick. Take high protein snacks to give you energy for the trip. Trail mix, chocolate, beef jerky and fruit are excellent choices. Don't rely on just chocolate though. The sugar high will cause you to eventually crash.
Clothing
Dress with the worst scenarios in mind. Make sure to wear hiking boots, socks, lightweight pants and a long-sleeved shirt. Boots will help to give traction and help to support the ankles. Socks will help to prevent blisters and can keep your feet dry. Pants and a long-sleeved shirt will help you stay warm and dry. It is a good idea to take a poncho in case it rains, but this depends on your location and the season.
Gear
Pack a map of the area you will be hiking and a compass. A first aid kit is a necessity when hiking. It does not have to be a large first aid kit, but something that has band-aids and disinfectant is a must. Pack a whistle. A whistle should be blown occasionally to let wild animals know you are in the area. They are more afraid of you than you are of them, and they will want to avoid you. Also, if you become separated from your friends, blowing the whistle can help them find you. Insect repellent is not a necessity, but it will add to your comfort by keeping all those bugs away from you.
Rule of Three
Follow the rule of three. The rule of three states that when you go hiking, there should always be at least three people. The main reason behind this is that if someone gets hurt, having a group of three people allows one person to stay with the person who is hurt while the third person can go to get help.
Poison Ivy
Avoid poison ivy and similar plants. Have an adult show you what it looks like and stay away from it. If you find yourself having to go through a heavily grown area, cover as much skin as possible. The oil inside of poison ivy, called urushiol, is what many people are allergic to. This oil can transfer onto your clothes, and then later onto you or someone else. Make sure to wash your clothes when you get home to remove the oil from your clothes if you encountered these plants.
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