href="#fb3_img_img_a4e5c8d1-a0f9-52bf-801f-881ae4b153f3.jpg" alt="Images"/> Antibiotic ointment (such as Neosporin)
Aspirin, acetaminophen (Tylenol), or ibuprofen (Advil)
This well-prepared crew hikes along Cady Ridge (see Hike 23).
Athletic tape
Blister kit (moleskin or an adhesive variety such as Spenco 2nd Skin)
Butterfly-closure bandages
Diphenhydramine (Benadryl), in case of allergic reactions
Elastic bandages (such as Ace) or joint wraps (such as Spenco)
Epinephrine in a prefilled syringe (EpiPen), typically by prescription only, for people known to have severe allergic reactions to hiking mishaps such as bee stings
Gauze (one roll and a half-dozen 4-by-4-inch pads)
Hydrogen peroxide or iodine
Hiking with Children
NO ONE IS TOO YOUNG FOR A HIKE. Be mindful, though. Flat, short, and shaded trails are best with an infant. Toddlers who haven’t quite mastered walking can still tag along, riding on an adult’s back in a child carrier. Use common sense to judge a child’s capacity to hike a particular trail and always anticipate that the child will tire quickly and need to be carried. See Recommended Hikes, for hikes that are suitable for kids.
General Safety
TO SOME POTENTIAL MOUNTAIN ENTHUSIASTS, the deep woods seem inordinately dark and perilous. It’s fear of the unknown that causes this anxiety. No doubt, potentially dangerous situations can occur outdoors, but as long as you use sound judgment and prepare yourself before hitting the trail, you’ll be much safer in the woods than in most urban areas of the country. It’s better to look at a backcountry hike as a fascinating chance to discover the unknown rather than as a chance for potential disaster.
If you’re new to the game, I’d suggest starting out easy and finding a person who knows more to help you out. In addition, here are a few tips to make your trip safer and easier.
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 ASSUME THAT YOUR MOBILE PHONE WILL WORK ON THE TRAIL. Reception may be spotty or nonexistent, especially on a trail embraced by towering trees.
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.
Signs warn hikers and horsepackers of precarious trail conditions below Old Snowy Mountain (see Hike 6).
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 if you’re wearing lightweight cotton clothing. If symptoms develop, get to shelter, hot liquids, and dry clothes as soon as possible.
href="#fb3_img_img_a4e5c8d1-a0f9-52bf-801f-881ae4b153f3.jpg" alt="Images"/> Antibiotic ointment (such as Neosporin)
