There’s nothing more exciting and exhilarating than being able to embrace the great outdoors. Imagine a day filled with exploration, discovery, and wonders when you’re one with nature. Wouldn’t it be nice to see how the sun illuminates the world when you’re not filled with daily stress and obligations?
We know how much you’re itching for that great outdoor adventure. However, there are safety measures that you need to consider. After all, it’s a dangerous world out there if you’re not careful.
In this guide, we compiled the top ten things you need to watch out for when you’re roaming in nature.
Quick Jump
Jungle Trekking – What to Watch out For
Wild Animals
One of the most significant aspects of the wild and untamed outdoors are the animals inhabiting the area. They roam as if the world belongs to them. There’s something glorious about the way they navigate through the outdoors but, if you want to make the best of your trip, you’d better be prepared for a bear visiting your campsite and rummaging for leftover food. To avoid attracting wild bears on your site, always clean up food remnants and tie remaining pieces high above the ground. Aside from bears, you may need to watch out for wolves, snakes, sharks, scorpions, spiders, and crocodiles depending on which location you plan to visit.
Poisonous Plants
It’s easy to get lost in the wonder of the woods and unconsciously touch something toxic and dangerous to you. Poisonous plants can pose a real threat to unknowing campers. As a general rule, if you cannot identify a plant, better not touch or eat it. You’ll have to be extra careful when you have children along with you on a camping trip as they tend to touch and eat everything that catches their eye.
Scorching Heat
When you go out into the great outdoors, it’s hard to imagine a camping or hiking trip without the sun by your side. However, too much heat can be unbearable. If possible, pack and wear specialized outdoor clothing from leading brands such as Kryptek. Your clothing should be weather-proof and act as protection from both the heat and cold. Be wary about the effects of heat on the human body. It can lead to dehydration, heatstroke and more. You should drink lots of water during the trip.
Unexpected weather patterns
There’s no telling what the weather will be like when you go out and explore the great outdoors. Like a coin toss, you either get the sun or the rain. You should watch out for weather advisories to guide you and evaluate whether you can trek the great outdoors safely during the dates you plan to go. If an unfortunate circumstance arises, or when the rain is pouring hard in the middle of your trip, you should always have a way out. However, if you’re stuck and there’s lightning, curl yourself up in a ball and stay away from a tent.
Human Errors
Although the great outdoors has some dangers brought by nature, one of the greatest threats there is in camping is human errors. For example, you may injure yourself from a handy knife or get shot by a loaded firearm. If possible, only bring what’s necessary and store items in a safe place.
Stay well hydrated
When on an outdoor adventure, your body would need more supply of water because of all that hiking and exposure to sun or camping outside. Therefore, it is a must to ensure that you drink lots of water and prevent any complications because of dehydration. Dehydration can lead to symptoms like headaches, dry mouth, fatigue, and loss of appetite. So keep drinking small amounts of water, especially if it is scorching and you are sweating a lot when hiking or outdoors.
Accidents near water
Activities near water bodies are a standard part of outdoor excursions, and one of the significant causes of death during outdoor excursions is drowning. It is common for campers and hikers to spend some time near water bodies like lakes or rivers to canoe or swim or any other recreation. If one is not careful, accidents can happen when visiting these areas. After all, those natural bodies of water are unpredictable when it comes to the nature of the currents, the depths, and the temperature. One should keep an eye on the children, especially those who are not strong swimmers.
Fatalities from falls
Being outdoors means at times you may be climbing the soaring cliffside or going down a canyon. At times one braves to get to a spot to take that picture-perfect Instagram shots, and if one is not careful, they can face fatal falls. Hence, be very careful, especially when walking on those slippery rocks or getting near to the edge of the cliffs. After all, it is never really worth the risk as you can never be sure as to how sturdy those cliff edges and rocks are when you step on them.
Poisoning in camps
It may sound a bit absurd, but it is true. One of the most common and major killers is carbon-monoxide poisoning when camping. Every year, hundreds of people die from carbon monoxide poisoning, especially in enclosed spaces like camps and cars. And thousands more get ill because of the completely odorless gas which is like a silent killer. Some watertight tents add to the risks of being exposed to this deadly carbon-monoxide gas, and many campers are found dead in their camps because of this reason.
Losing the way
Although most hiking trails are well marked, it is possible to get lost if one doesn’t stick to those trails or gets separated from the party in the attempt to be more adventurous. Lost hikers may face other dangers like running out of food and water or facing a wild animal. Thus, one should never go on those unclear trails as it raises the risks of losing the way. It is essential to stay together as a group to stay safe and well protected. Always carry a map and compass to pinpoint your location.
With careful preparation and planning, you can thrive in the great outdoors and have fun while doing it. Keep the important tips mentioned above in mind and you can have the trip of a lifetime.
