If you and your family like to travel, camp, hike, or simply to get out in the remote places of the world, then it’s important to be extra mindful of the potential risks that you might face along the way. Here are a few outdoor safety tips to help you stay protected, whether you’re in a new town or in places much further away from civilization.
Share Your Itinerary
If you’re heading out camping or going on a hiking trail that’s long or particularly challenging, then make sure that someone knows where you are. Having someone know your route, accommodation details, and return date is essential! This ensures someone can alert authorities if you’re overdue or uncontactable.
You should also schedule times to reach out to someone back home, especially if you’re in a place where your technology’s reception might be a little spotty.
Don’t Forget The Essentials
If an accident happens when you’re out, you want to be able to take fix the problem immediately. One of the best outdoor safety tips is to have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand. This kit shuld include essentials like antiseptics, bandages, pain relievers, tweezers, antihistamines, and any personal medications.
Depending on your destination, you should also prepare accordingly, such as with altitude sickness pills for elevated areas, for example, or rehydration salts for more tropical climates. Get to know how to use everything in your pack in advance, too, so you’re ready if something happens!
Be Able To Reach Someone In An Emergency
If you’re travelling to remote locations, then you may not have easy access to traditional hospitals and emergency services. Research all medical support that’s nearby, and if you think none are within a suitable distance, then make sure to record the contact details of remote site medical services. These services can be instrumental, no matter where you are. Don’t be caught off-guard without help!
Focus On Proper Technology
Having the right tech, be it a phone, radio, or anything that can muster an internet connection, can be vital when you’re out in the wilderness. However, it’s only as useful as you make it. So, be sure to pack a portable battery charger and, if you’re going out really remote, a portable Wi-Fi hotspot to help you get access to the apps and tools you need.
But Don’t Rely On Tech Alone
Batteries can die, your signal can disappear, and your phones and GPS apps can become useless, sometimes even with the tips above. For that reason, you should always have a backup: a printed map, compass, or written-down emergency contacts. You can also navigate using basic landmarks or nature (stars, direction of the sunrise/sunset, etc.)
It’s important to keep your environment at the forefront of your mind, too, ensuring you’re able to navigate any potential wildlife or unstable terrain.
The safety of you and your loved ones comes first, even if you love the thrill of being out in the wild! By following these outdoor safety tips, you can prepare your family to have a great and safe time.
Featured Image Credit: Eric Sanman