It is the fall season. Tree leaves are turning orange. The weather is getting brisker. Halloween is just around the corner. What is better than a pumpkin spiced latte on a cool fall morning? The answer is a hike — waking up early, having a cup of joe, and getting to the hiking trail on time for the sunrise, and taking in the sights and sounds of the outside. Whether it is a run or a walk, or a steep climb, a hike is sure to get your heart pumping. But there is a problem. Caught up in the excitement of going on the hike, you forgot to check the weather forecast. As you started the 3 mile hike you planned, halfway through it starts to rain and now the ground turns into mud. Unprepared for this situation you slip and break your ankle. Now you are in the middle of this trail with no one else to help you.
This is why it is so important to make the proper preparations and precautions before going on a hike. If you are injured on a hike, especially on a private trail, contact a Bellevue injury lawyer today to get deserved compensation.
Hiking Preparations
The best way to ensure your safety on a hike this fall is to simply be prepared. This means picking a trail that matches your skillset, checking the weather forecast beforehand (and the days previous to the day you plan to go), and bringing the appropriate footwear/clothing needed for a comfortable hike. Other important things to bring on a hike is lots of water to stay hydrated and food/snacks to keep your energy levels up. Good investments for hiking include, backpacks that have water pouches included with a plastic bendable straw for easy access, small snacks with high energy output such as gummy bears, and hiking boots with specialized outer soles made to grip the ground effectively.
Trail Safety
According to the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), 1 in 15,700 people die mountain hiking every year. While this may seem small the number of annual deaths from bungee jumping is 1 in 500,000. This means dying from hiking is almost 32 times more likely than dying from bungee jumping. This is a testament to the necessity of on-trail safety. The National Park Service (NPS) recommends hiking with a partner or a group, staying on trails with markers, setting a comfortable hiking pace, bringing a first aid kit, and having proper communication tools such as a phone or a personal locator beacon.
Common Injuries
The most common injuries and how to avoid them during a hike are:
- Blisters (wear specialized socks with extra heel padding)
- Sprained ankle (use proper hiking boots with extra feet support)
- Dehydration (bring lots of backup water)
- Sunburn (pack plenty of sunscreen and wear breathable shirts/pants/hats)
- Insect bites and stings (insect repellent will protect you)
- Sprains and Strains (keep a comfortable hiking pace and avoid dangerous maneuvers)
- Hypothermia (bring an blanket and an insulated fleece if hiking overnight or during colder seasons)
- Bone fracture (do not steer off a hiking path)
- Cuts (wearing long sleeves or tough pants can prevent cuts from bushes or trees)
Steps To Take If Injured
If you are injured while on a hike, the first thing to do is to try and not panic, but instead assess the situation. If a minor injury, like a cut, use the first aid kit you brought in your pack. If a serious, life-threatening injury, call out for help or emergency services (if alone) or have your hiking partner contact help for you. While waiting for emergency services, attempt to minimize your movement if you have hit your head or broken a bone. The less you move, the less damage you will inflict on yourself.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.
