Outdoor Safety

Hypothermia is the number one killer of outdoor recreationists. It occurs when the body temperature is lowered and unable to produce heat. Signs include shivering, slow or slurred speech, fumbling or immobile fingers, stumbling, sleepiness, and exhaustion. Should someone in your group start to show signs, get them into a warm environment by removing all wet clothing. Do not let them drink anything containing caffeine or alcohol, and do not let them sleep until all signs are gone. Utilize layering techniques to wick away moisture while retaining body warmth. Check the weather reports before entering the wilderness. Always bring rain gear.

Humans, wild animals, and some domestic animals carry giardiasis organisms. They are spread by improper disposal of human and animal feces. Bury all feces at least 8 inches deep and at least 100 feet from water. Don't let your dogs or other domestic animals defecate in or near water supplies. Bring your own bottled water or a water treatment container such as HEALTH SHIELD, which is a scoop-and-drink system.

Signs include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bloating, fatigue, and loss of weight. Treatment by a physician is the only way to kill the organisms.

Heat-related illness occurs when your body is unable to cool itself, causing muscle cramping, and heat stroke may set in. Temperatures during heat stroke will rise as high as 105-107°, and death can result if the core temperature is not rapidly reduced.

Signs include dehydration, muscle cramps, nausea, dizziness, weakness, and exhaustion.

Remedy is to remove the person from the heat, cool with wet towels or clothing, rest, and give ½ glass of water or approximately 4 oz. every half hour.

Do not give salt tablets, sodas or juices containing high levels of sugar, caffeine or alcohol. Monitor activity to avoid exertion.

Lightning can occur from big, white, puffy clouds that will turn into thunderstorms. Always check weather reports. Avoid tall trees, high ridges and seek cover in a valley or ravine, crouch down with only your feet touching the ground.

Ticks are everywhere there is vegetation. At higher elevations they are rare, but during abnormal heat they will be around. Prevention is best. Wear long sleeved shirts and pants tucked into your socks. Spray your clothes with repellent that contains DEET. To remove a tick, place tweezers as close to the tick's head then gently pull the tick out.

Feeding wildlife is not in their best interest. People food is not designed for bears, squirrels, and deer, even though it is very tempting. When an animal is unable to digest something, it remains in the stomach. The animals feel full and eventually will starve. Please remember, most animals become aggressive when they realize humans provide food.