Safety is an especially important consideration for outdoor recreation and needs to be taken into consideration for any outdoor trip.
Here is a hiking safety checklist that will help protect you from adverse circumstances, heal your body, repair damaged gear and generally protect you in an emergency situation overnight.
First aid kit: This is a non-negotiable essential which is a must for both hikes and picnics.
Food: Get enough of the right food to provide you with high energy and meet your needs on the hike. Be sure to take the right food for an emergency too.
Water: To keep yourself hydrated, water is must. It is very difficult to carry extra water, so carry water purification systems if you can as they are very helpful for emergency cases.
Signal device: Include signal devices in your hiking safety checklist. A whistle, hand-sized mirror, plastic tape, and glow stick on a rope can be used to signal if you want any help.
Compass and map: A compass and map of your hiking trail are ideal.
Multi-tool pocket equipment: Multi-tools are useful for a wide range of activities. They help to removing splinters and repair equipment.
Lighter or matches: To light a campfire, lighters are very useful. Fire starter cubes are ideal for wet climates. [Building a campfire]
Sun protection: Sunscreen, sun hat and sun glasses are a must. They are particularly useful at high altitudes and near snow flakes.
Plastic bag: Take zip-lock bags as they are useful to keep wet items away from dry ones.
Blankets: Take blankets to provide warmth and also provide emergency shelter.
Clothing: Get synthetic clothes to keep you warm during the hike. Take a sweater, waterproof jackets, gloves, hat and socks.
