Hiking Safety

Hiking is a relatively safe outdoor adventure. People get hurt when they do not prepare for bad weather or push their bodies harder than they should. The other most common problem when hiking is getting lost, so it is important to know how NOT to get lost and what to do if it does happen.

	Solo Hiking Some experienced people like the solitude and extra challenge of hiking alone. There is security in numbers, but solo hiking with skill, preparation, and communication can be safe.
	Dangerous Trails Most hiking is done on well-traveled trails that are fairly smooth and packed. There are thousands of miles of such trails with great scenery and solitude. But, as you explore and push your limits, you may begin to hike cross-country, on small game trails, across rocks, and on other treacherous, unstable ground.
	First Aid A personal first aid kit is a big step toward safe hikes.
	Navigating A map and compass are only useful tools for those that can use them.
	Being Lost A wrong turn, unfamiliar terrain, bad weather, and then suddenly you realize you don't know where you are. Now what?
	Signaling for Help Whether lost or not, if you need help, you need to know how to ask. If you give the wrong signals, people may think you are just fine and need no assistance so make sure you know the correct way to ask.