• Let someone know where you are going and when you will return.
• If in doubt of the trail route, be sure to carry appropriate maps.
• Always sign trail registers if available. This could save your life.
• If possible, check with a park ranger about trail conditions.
• Check weather reports to know what you are up against.
• I hate to say this, but bring your cell phone. Turn it off so as not to intrude on the solitude, and only use in the event of an emergency.

Wildlife:

• Never feed any animals. It not only makes them less fearful of man, but your choice of food may actually harm or kill them.
• Most animal attacks (mountain lion, bear) occur against a solo hiker. Travel in groups and don’t let your little ones out of your site. Travel together.
• If you happen across a mountain lion do not turn and run. Stay calm. Try and make yourself appear as big as possible by pushing out your chest and raising your hands. Pick up small children so they don't panic and run. This will also make you appear larger. Avoid bending over or crouching. If the lion acts aggressively, throw rocks, branches, or whatever can be obtained without turning your back or bending over. Fight back if attacked. A mountain lion usually tries to bite the head or neck. Remain standing and face the animal. People have successfully fought back with rocks, sticks, or bare hands. This is where a trekking pole (walking stick) comes in handy (see Hiking Essentials).
• Rattlesnakes can be found in rock piles, woodpiles, shade areas when the temperatures are high and sunning themselves on rocks or in the middle of a trail during cool periods. Stick to well-used trails and wear over-the-ankle boots. Do not step or put your hands where you cannot see, and avoid wandering around in the dark. Step on top of logs and rocks, never over them, and be especially careful when climbing rocks or gathering firewood. If you encounter a rattlesnake, leave the snake alone and move away slowly.

Enviornmental Hazards:

• Know the characteristics of poison ivy and poison oak. “Leaves of three, leave them be…”
• Do not drink from streams without treatment or boiling the water to protect you against Giardia parasites. No matter how clean the water looks.

Injury:

• If someone is injured, stay calm and remain with that person until help arrives. If you must hike out to get assistance, leave a note with the injured as to type of injury, where you are going and in what direction.

Related Links:

Poison Ivy, Oak, & Sumac Information

Bear Safety

Foothills Trail Club Hiking Tips

FamilyMatters Hiking Essentials

Rattlesnake Safety