Outdoor Preparation Tips

[accadacca]

The object of this thread is to keep our minds sharp and make sure we are always prepared for the challenges we face in the outdoors. The truth of the matter is, if you are not prepared, it can result in injury or death. Don't forget to think and plan ahead.

Give a brief tip or story below for others, based on your experience. Hopefully this will help others to think and not make a mistake. Each sport has its own challenges. Nothing is insignificant. Many of us have had an "epic" or had to "bivy" in the outdoors. I'm excited to hear the great stories and tips!

Examples (all the pressure on me lol):

• Someone should always know where you are and ideally specifics to what trail you will be on, etc. They should also know when to come get you, if do not return as scheduled. You could also use a SPOT receiver to be found quickly or to call for help.

• Always bring a first aid kit. They come in all sizes.

[double moo]

Educate yourself on basic rescue and first aid techniques relative the outdoor activities you participate in. If you never need it to save your buddies, you may need it to save yourself.

[tallsteve]

With the volunteer trailwork I do for the USFS, and in order to be chainsaw certified, I have to take a Red Cross first-aid course every year. The Forest Service arranges it and it's taught by the Pleasant Grove Fire Department EMT's / first responders. I always enjoy going to this course but, admittedly, it just skims the surface. I feel really good about my CPR abilities and actually helped perform it on a gentleman 2 years ago. I've also had to do the Heimlich twice. None of these were in a backcountry setting, however. The first-aid needs I run into up the canyon while biking or hiking are typically pretty minor like cuts, gashes, head impacts and heat exhaustion. I've started carrying blood-clot powder and a clean bandana with me. I'm confident I can deal with anyone needing CPR and all the minor stuff. At some point I'd like to take an advanced wilderness first-aid course.

[Scott P]

There is only one thing you need to know when going outdoors.

1. Don't do something stupid.

If you follow this rule, everything else falls in place.

[qedcook]

One error I make far too often is that when I've been to an area or canyon or climb before, I assume my memory will be strong enough to plan properly the next time I go without thoroughly reviewing the beta and trail description, etc. Then I get out there and hit something I didn't remember and think: Oh yeah, I should have prepared for this obstacle better...

[gholt]

In winter activities always be prepared to spend the night, that way you won't be unprepared for the unexpected.

Sent from my Nexus 5X using Tapatalk

[accadacca]

There is only one thing you need to know when going outdoors.

1. Don't do something stupid.

If you follow this rule, everything else falls in place.
Some of us don't know what would be considered "stupid" and that is the point of these tips and stories.

[kiwi_outdoors]

For trips where death or major injury is a possibility under adverse circumstances (canyon-flash flood, avalanche while x-country sking) - have a PLAN B - which is an alternate activity that you can do if the main activity is judged to be too hazardous due to weather or snow conditions on the day (or night before). It may just bring you back alive.

[Scott P]

http://www.bogley.com/forum/images/metro/blue/misc/quote_icon.png Originally Posted by Scott P http://www.bogley.com/forum/images/metro/blue/buttons/viewpost-right.png (http://www.bogley.com/forum/showthread.php?p=582218#post582218)
There is only one thing you need to know when going outdoors.

1. Don't do something stupid.

If you follow this rule, everything else falls in place.


Some of us don't know what would be considered "stupid" and that is the point of these tips and stories.

True. Unfortunately, much of the time it's only evident after the fact.

Good judgment comes from experience. Experience comes from bad judgement.

Anyway, one thing I would add is that anyone heading outdoors should learn how to read a map. It is surprising how many people get lost!

[double moo]

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