By Anita Dietz
Special to GUIDON

Hiking and camping can provide a great deal of pleasure, relaxation and a sense of adventure, and these activities are rarely hazardous.  However, on occasion people do have accidents or get lost, and both hiking and camping can become dangerous very
quickly for those who are
unprepared.

Heed these safety tips to increase your chances of a safe outdoor experience this summer:

-- Never hike alone. 

-- If you are new to hiking, stick to well-marked and well-traveled paths.

-- Always tell a responsible adult where you will be hiking and when you plan to return.

-- Take a basic survival kit even on short hikes or camping overnight.  This kit should include as a minimum the following items: first-aid kit, drinking water, knife, compass, map, charged cell phone, small bottle of sunscreen and insect repellant, flashlight with fresh batteries, non-perishable food and any medications who might need in
24 to 48 hours.

-- When hiking or camping remember that you never drink directly from local streams. Natural water sources may look inviting, but are often heavily loaded with bacteria and can make you sick very quickly.

-- Never approach animals you encounter no matter how tame they seem from a distance.

-- Watch for snakes, spiders and other critters. Watch where you are walking and be especially careful when picking up sticks or rocks. Always look around before taking a seat, as you may be sitting on someone else’s home. Snakes are usually more afraid of us, but if they feel threatened or if you make sudden movements, they may strike. Stay calm and slowly move away from them.  Give them space to escape from you.

-- Always supervise children. Discuss the importance of not wandering away from adults or the campsite. Give them a whistle to wear around their neck to be used only in an emergency.

-- Be extra cautious around water. Crossing even small streams can be dangerous.

-- Pay attention to weather conditions. Be prepared to act if adverse weather arises. Stay hydrated in all types of weather — especially in hot weather. Know the signs for heat injuries and watch each other.

-- Be very careful with propane cylinders. Keep upright at all times. Keep outside in well ventilated area. Check for leakage by putting liquid soap on all connections. Turn off when not in use. Never install or remove propane cylinders while stove is lit, near flames, pilot lights, other ignition sources or while stove is hot to the touch.


Fire safety tips

Campers and hikers should also practice good fire safety. Follow the tips below when planning to build a fire:

-- Clear the area of all debris/avoid area with overhanging branches.

-- Construct a fire ring surrounded by rocks.

-- Have a bucket of water, shovel and a fire extinguisher nearby.

-- Never build a fire near tents or other flammable items.

-- Never use flammable fluids to start a fire.

-- Never leave a fire unattended.

-- Build a fire only as big as you need.

-- Make sure to completely extinguish all fires.

Following these simple tips can be the difference between a memorable camping or hiking experience and an outdoor nightmare. Stay safe and think safety 24/7.

(Editor’s note: Dietz is a safety and occupational health specialist with the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence Safety Office.)