Safe Hiking Tips

By Fred Feibel, Trustee

We are fortunate in Simsbury to have great variety of easily accessible trails available to us year round.  Hiking these local trails can present the same set of risks found in more remote areas. Some simple, thoughtful planning and good decision making on the trail will help everyone come home having had a wonderful experience.

Keep these things in mind:

• Plan your route ahead of time, have a map and let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.

• Pick a route appropriate for your experience, fitness, time frame and the weather conditions. Expect rapid weather changes.

• Wear multiple layers of moisture wicking clothing that can be added or removed as needed. Avoid cotton near the skin especially. Take one more layer than you think you will need.

• Carry plenty of water.  A short trip can become a long one.  Have a cell phone, a small flashlight and first aid kit along.

• Be prepared to adapt your plan to changing conditions. If something goes wrong stop and think before continuing. Do not be afraid to return the way you came.

Relax and enjoy yourself because you are prepared!