Planning a vacation to a national park or forest is to some the vacation of a lifetime. Yet, planning carefully is a key element to making the most out of your vacation. When the worst happens, such as you or a loved one gets lost in the woods, being prepared is the best way to get out of the situation unscathed. Many times, disaster strikes and tragedy becomes the end result of a terrible situation because safety details were left out. Don’t let this happen to you.
With a small list of essential things to take with you, a possible tragedy can easily become eradicated. These things include a map of the area with land marks you can easily identify, a compass, a flashlight, extra batteries for the flashlight, extra food and water, wearing layers of clothing, a lighter or matches, a pocket knife, a whistle, and, most importantly, a first aid kit.
When planning your vacation, always remember that a map only works with a compass. Also, remember to carry objects in waterproof containers. If you are taking a day adventure, bring an extra day’s worth of food and water and if your journey is going to last longer, take along food for a few extra days. If you have young children, dress them in bright colors that do not blend in with their surroundings. That way, if they become lost they can be more easily found. Equipping everyone in your party with a whistle is also smart. Worn around the neck, it is easily carried. When planning essential things to take with you, add to them if you wish and accommodate them to fit your needs.
If you are outdoors in the winter or the extreme heat of summer, it is of peak importance to know how to survive if exposed to the elements for a prolonged amount of time. In cold temperatures, make sure to stay dry the best you can. Keeping an eye on your nose, cheeks, ears, toes, and fingers for frostbite is also a good way to stay unharmed. Frostbite strikes silently and, oftentimes, with no pain. Losing one of these extremities is very easy to do if frostbite goes unchecked. If you are experiencing numbness, drowsiness, muscle weakness, confusion, and impaired judgement, get into a sheltered environment as soon as possible. Use trees and boulders for windbreaks and start a fire if you can.
For extreme heat conserve water the best you can. Don’t drink in large swallows, but in small sips so your body doesn’t dehydrate. If you are in a desert environment try to sleep in an area hidden from the sun during the day and keep awake at night when the heat has dwindled.
When you or a loved one is lost always remember that if you’re not sure where civilization lies then stay still! Always tell someone who is not going with you where you are going and when you will be back. That way, when you don’t come back, they can alert the proper authorities. The most important thing to do is to stay calm and use common sense. This will guide you out of almost any situation and the ending to your ordeal will be a happy one.
