A SmartTravel Trek
The southern interior of BC has a vast number of eco-systems that range from deserts in the south to mixed forests and grasslands, interior rainforests and alpine. This is indeed a hikers paradise year round.
Whether you're out for a leisurely walk, a day-hike through park trails or a more active multi-day trek through the backcountry here's a few tips to help ensure your trip is a safe one:
Check the weather before you leave and be prepared for it to change.
Carry extra food & clothing a good rule of thumb for day-trippers is to be able to stay out overnight, in case of trouble.
Be bear aware and cougar aware. Bears and cougars aren't just in the backcountry our parks and cities encroach on their habitat. Ensure you know what to do if you meet one.
Our trails are for everyone, so while you're out there remember:
Keep to the trail. Shortcuts contribute to erosion and can destroy sensitive growth.
Slow your pace and announce your presence/intentions when approaching other users.
Share the trail. Downhill yields to uphill. Hikers yield to horseback riders.
The 10 Important Essentials for a Smartravel Trek:
1. Flashlight, spare batteries and bulb
2. Firemaking kit waterproof matches/lighter, firestater/candle
3. Signalling device whistle or mirror to signal searchers if you become lost
4. Extra food and water 1 litre/person
5. Extra clothing (rain, wind, water protection and toque)
6. Navigational/ Communication Aids (maps, compass, GPS, charts, cellular phone, satellite phone, hand held radio fully charged battery) know how to use them
7. First Aid kit know how to use it
8. Emergency shelter orange tarp or large orange garbage bag. These can also be used as signalling devices
9. Pocket knife.
10. Sun protection (glasses, sunscreen, hat)
It's important to have the Best Gear for your journey.
Before you head out to explore, ensure that you invest some time and money to get properly outfitted. Comfort and safety are two key considerations when purchasing your outdoor gear:
Dress in layers proper layering of clothing enables you to regulate your body temperature while outside.
Wear clothing and footwear that fits properly ill-fitting clothing can lead to chafing or failure to regulate your body temperature; ill-fitting footwear can lead to hotspots or blisters.
Expect the unexpected weather conditions can change in a heartbeat, so ensure that you've got sufficient clothing to protect yourself from the elements.
Buy sport-specific each outdoor pursuit has its own safety considerations and requirements, so get the right gear to meet those needs.
Your choice of clothing and footwear can significantly impact your comfort and safety outdoors. So, choose wisely you can find a list of suppliers for the Best Gear at: www.adventurecatalogue.com
Your Best Gear List should include:
Comfortable, warm clothing
A second layer for warmth on colder days
Wool socks plus extras
Hiking Boots
Small backpack/camel back water system
Bug spray
Moleskin for blisters
If you're camping overnight add these items to your Best Gear List:
Proper backpack with good support
Tent
Sleeping bag and pad
Stove and fuel
Food/Scented items bag
Gear repair kit
Make a Trip Plan and leave it with a friend or family member.
You can download our Responsible Traveler Trip Planner from www.themonsterguide.com
Leave a copy of the plan with a responsible person prior to your outdoor adventure. While on your trip, stick to the Plan. In the event that you do not return as stated in your Plan, it will be given to police and search and rescue organizers to help them find you.
TRAIL SAFETY
FOR KIDS
Hug-a-Tree and Survive is an RCMP search and rescue initiative that helps lost children survive in the woods. This proactive, preventative program originated in San Diego, CA, after a nine-year-old boy became lost and tragically died in the wilderness.
Hug-a-Tree and Survive teaches children invaluable outdoor survival lessons, including:
Always tell an adult where you are going.
Always carry an orange garbage bag and whistle on picnics, hikes and camping trips.
Once you know you're lost, "hug a tree" and stay put.
Make a face hole in your garbage bag and put it on over your head to keep warm and dry.
Help searchers find you by blowing your whistle and by answering their calls.
