ESSENTIALS FOR SAFE HIKING

Also see: US Forest Service Hiking Safety Tips and get current Columbia River Gorge NSA current conditions at National Forest Conditions

Water - On a hot day, without sufficient water you  risk of dehydration and heat stroke.

Sunglasses

Hat - Sun or rain, you need a hat to keep the top of your head from burning or shedding too much heat.

Sun screen and lip cream

First aid kit - Keep your kit simple: Band-Aids, antibiotic cream, gauze, an elastic bandage, adhesive tape, antihistamines and painkillers, such as Tylenol. Be sure to ask your physician what medications you need to bring if you suffer from asthma, allergies or other chronic ailments.

Flashlight with extra batteries and bulb.

Insect repellent

Whistle - Essential if hiking in the woods.

Tool Kit - Tools to repair/adjust your mobility device.

Pocketknife - Many potentially life-saving tasks require a blade: Cutting clothing to assess injuries, shaving branches for kindling.

Compass and map

Waterproof matches or lighter

Fire starter or candle

Extra clothes - In a mild climate, the outer layer might be a waterproof jacket. In a colder climate, you might need a back-up down parka.

Poncho - If you use a mobility scooter or power chair, carry a large poncho with you. If a sudden rain storm comes up, the poncho will protect you and your mobility device's electronics. Carry a separate large garbage bag to cover the tiller of your scooter in case your poncho does not reach that far.

Large orange plastic bag - One of the most valuable items on the list. Covering yourself with the bag helps keep you warm and dry. The orange color is also highly visible and helps attract attention, particularly from the air.

Food - Pack a couple of granola or energy bars or some trail mix with nuts and dried fruit. You can also use what are known in military jargon as MREs, or "Meals, Ready-to-Eat." These meals last for years without refrigeration.

Cell Phone - Sure, take your cell phone, but don't rely on it in the back country. If you're in a valley you may not be able to get a (phone) signal.

Leave A Message With A Friend - Leave word where you're going and when you'll return. Always stick to your planned hike. A note, left with a responsible person, explains your destination, the route you are taking, who is with you, and your return time. If you do not return as planned, this person can give the accurate information to the police.

Many trails have a register at the beginning of the trail where you can sign in and out. If not, complete a Dashboard Emergency Info Sheet and place it on the dashboard of your car before you head out.

Know yourself and your limits.- Hike with someone. Beginning and disabled hikers should not hike alone.

Be Prepared - It Could Happen To YOU: Bad weather, early darkness or an unexpected injury can turn an easy trail experience into an extended crisis. IT CAN HAPPEN TO YOU! By being prepared you will enjoy your trip in the back country regardless of what nature throws at you.

Know what time the sun sets. It gets dark faster in the woods, so plan to finish your hike well before sunset.

Learn about possible hazards in the area, such as snowfields, flash floods or lightning.

Learn about any dangerous wildlife living in the area. For example, you need to know how to avoid bears if you are in bear country.

Bring with you everything you may need, and carry out all trash.

Stay on the trail - This keeps you from getting lost and will help preserve fragile plant life.