Although each person should be responsible for their own safety, irresponsible acts by one person may affect, and even endanger, the whole group. An accident is, by definition, an unplanned, unforeseen event, but many problems can be prevented with a bit of foresight and planning. Do not ignore strange behaviour by a group member in adverse conditions, as this may signal the onset of heat stroke, hypothermia or altitude sickness.
A few precautions which could prevent illness or injury on hiking trips:
- Use sunblock with a high UV factor.
- Wear sunglasses, a hat and clothes that cover sensitive areas even on cloudy days
- Always carry waterproof and warm, protective clothing, even when the weather seems fine.
- Drink plenty of water, a minimum of 2 litres a day.
- Apply sticky plaster or moleskin to chafed spots before blisters form on the feet.
- For trips to altitudes of over 2 400 m above sea level, familiarize yourself with the symptoms and warning signs of high altitude sickness and dehydration as well as with the prevention and treatment thereof, especially people living near the coast.
This information is provided merely as a guideline and the author does not accept responsibility for incorrect/incomplete information. |
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