October 13, 2009
Hiking Safety in the White Mountains or Anywhere
“Be Prepared”, the motto made famous by Robert Baden- Powell, and most widely used by the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts can apply to many activities, especially hiking in the great White Mountains.
The fall is a perfect time to hike but the weather can change very quickly. The higher up you hike, the more likely you are to encounter dramatic weather changes. Whether you are going for a short morning hike or an overnight on Mount Washington the following are the 10 essentials for every hike.
These essentials along with the hiker responsibility code are courtesy of HikeSafe.com a combined effort between White Mountain National Forest and New Hampshire Fish and Game Department and endorsed by both.
Map of where you are going
Compass
Warm Clothing (NO COTTON)
Sweater or Pile Jacket
Long Pants (wool or synthetic)
Hat and socks (2 pairs) (wool)
Extra Food and Water
Flashlight or Headlamp and extra battery
Matches/Firestarters
First Aid Kit/Repair Kit
Whistle
Rain/Wind Jacket & Pants
Pocket Knife
AND Editor’s suggestion, duck tape. You’ll be amazed at the number of emergency uses this tape handles…from blisters to repairing equipment.
hikeSafe Hiker Responsibility Code
1. With knowledge and gear. Become self reliant by learning about the terrain, conditions, local weather and your equipment before you start.
2. To leave your plans. Tell someone where you are going, the trails you are hiking, when you will return and your emergency plans.
3. To stay together. When you start as a group, hike as a group, end as a group. Pace your hike to the slowest person.
4. To turn back. Weather changes quickly in the mountains. Fatigue and unexpected conditions can also affect your hike. Know your limitations and when to postpone your hike. The mountains will be there another day.
5. For emergencies. Even if you are headed out for just an hour, an injury, severe weather or a wrong turn could become life threatening. Don’t assume you will be rescued; know how to rescue yourself.
6. To share the hiker code with others.
For a list of hikes and walks - check out the Adventure in the White Mountains Map & Guide at HospitalityMaps.com
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