WALKING SAFELY - III

(Forest trail)

If you enjoy walking in forest trail or some adventurous spots or routes, you are to take some extra precautions and follow another set of rules of caring for the environment.

It is always better to follow the trail, rather than wandering out of it. Getting lost in forest trail if we do not have enough knowledge on it, is very easy. It not only bad for you, it is bad for the forest too.

Walking alone on trail is not advisable. You should have at least one companion, if not walking in a group. All of you should have some knowledge on medical first aid and basic survival trainings.

Let your family, friends or neighbor know where you are going. Leave a note at your residence on the locations you are planning to visit or the route you will be following.

Even if you are going for a few hours take some emergency supply with you like bottled water, few bars of chocolate, first aid kit, medical supply if you take it regularly, torch light, signal device to draw attention, and an extra layer of clothing. A rain proof cloak is very useful if you expect rain during the time /season.

It is better to walk with a comfortable boot and your body should be covered as much possible on a jungle trail.

Remember help may not be readily available in this kind of walking, go prepared. One should be able to detect medical emergencies like heart attack and so on.

Never leave any fire without dousing completely before leaving the site. Proper care should be taken for waste disposal.

The wild animals do not attack human unless they are provoked. So try to avoid them and always keep a safe distance from them.

Never forget to take a map of the area and a compass before venturing out.

You may be surprised to see the mobile phone connectivity in remote areas. Carry one fully charged and switched off. A small radio will keep you updated about the climate and weather during the time.

Discuss with friends, read available material, be informed about the trail you are going to venturing out.

Walking in a forest, mountain trail away from human habitat can be very relaxing and fun if we follow the above tips. Take a forest trail some times and unwind in nature, you will like every bit of it.

Have a fun filled and healthy walking!!