Think Safety, Act Safely

Hiking Essentials

When hitting the trail, being prepared with the right essentials can make all the difference. Here are key safety tips to keep in mind before and during your hike:

Plan Your Hike

  • Research the trail’s difficulty, length, and terrain.

  • Be aware of current and forecasted weather conditions. Avoid hiking in extreme weather.

  • Inform a friend or family of your planned route and expected time of return.

Wear Proper Gear

  • Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes or boots suitable for the terrain.

  • Dress in moisture-wicking clothing appropriate to the weather.

  • Wear sunscreen, sunglasses, or a hat to protect yourself from sun exposure.

Essential Supplies

  • Always bring a map or a GPS device to stay on track. A fully charged device with offline maps can be a lifesaver in remote areas.

  • Carry enough water to stay hydrated, and bring high-energy snacks such as fruits, energy bars, or trail mix to fuel your body.

  • Pack a basic first aid kit that includes bandages, antiseptic wipes, blister treatments, pain relievers, and any personal medications.

Boating Safety

Whether you’re out on a lake, river, or ocean, following basic boating safety tips is essential to ensure a fun and safe experience on the water. Here are key safety tips every boater should know.

Always Wear a Life Jacket

  • Make sure everyone on board wears a properly fitted life jacket at all times, especially in rough water or if they can’t swim.

  • Children under a certain age (typically 12 years old) should always wear a life jacket, regardless of their swimming ability.

Be Aware of Environment and Weather

  • Always check the weather forecast before heading out. Avoid boating in stormy or high-wind conditions to reduce the risk of accidents.

  • Stay alert to other boats, swimmers, wildlife, and water hazards (e.g., rocks, submerged objects). Use proper navigation rules to avoid collisions.

  • Maintain a safe distance from other vessels, docks, people and wildlife to avoid disturbing natural habitats.

Follow the Rules

  • Always follow local boating laws, such as respecting no-wake zones, speed limits, and boating regulations. Be courteous to other boaters and share the waters responsibly.

  • Familiarize yourself with navigation signs, buoys, and other markers.

Inspect Your Boat

  • Ensure your boat is in good working condition and equipped with essential safety gear, such as life jackets, a first aid kit, a fire extinguisher, and distress signals.

  • Check the engine, fuel and other components before setting out to avoid breakdowns.

  • Follow the manufacturer’s weight limit for passengers and equipment as overloading can affect the boat’s stability and increase the risk of capsizing.

Emergency Preparedness

Being prepared for emergencies can make a critical difference in how you respond to unexpected situations. Here are essential emergency preparedness tips to help you stay safe and react effectively:

Build a Survival Kit

  • Keep a well-stocked emergency kit with non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, flashlight, batteries, a multi-tool, and other essentials.

  • Include important documents (IDs, insurance papers), extra clothing, hygiene supplies, and any necessary medications.

  • Ensure you have a portable charger or solar-powered charger in your kit for your communication devices.

Stay Informed

  • Use weather apps, local news, or NOAA weather radios to stay up-to-date with warnings, evacuation orders, and important updates.

  • Understand the types of natural disasters that can occur in your area, such as floods, earthquakes, or wildfires, and prepare accordingly.

Learn Basic First Aid and CPR

  • Take a certified first aid and CPR course to learn how to respond to common injuries, such as cuts, burns, sprains, or heart attacks.

  • Familiarize yourself with how to use the items in your first aid kit, such as bandages, antiseptic wipes, and emergency medications.

Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

  • In any emergency, staying calm is essential. Take a deep breath, assess the situation, and make rational decisions based on your surroundings and available resources.

  • Focus on the most immediate threats to your safety, whether that’s securing shelter, treating injuries, or evacuating to a safe location.