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Plan for a
Safe Hike

Cyndy Tellez
Master Educator for "Leave No Trace"

Fern Del

Hike Safely in the San Antonio Natural Areas

PLAN!
Proper planning can make the difference between an enjoyable experience in the outdoors and one that is unpleasant!
If you are new to our San Antonio Natural Areas, please take time to visit our website, www.sanaturalareas.org.  There you will find nature guides, trail maps and descriptions to download, as well as other

information that will add enjoyment to your hike. Trail maps for Friedrich Wilderness Park, Eisenhower Park and Medina River Natural Area are also available at the trail head kiosks.

Take a trail map and a compass with you.  Learn how to use them before you go on your hike!

Even if you are a seasoned hiker in the Natural Areas, you need to do some planning.

Plan your hike and let someone know where and when you are going.  Choose a route depending on your fitness and the weather.  For maximum safety, hike with a friend or a group.

WEAR!
Wear sturdy shoes that provide good ankle support and have non-skid soles.  Some of our trails are very rocky.  Dress for the weather; it is very changeable in Texas.  Wear layers of clothing that can be removed or added as needed.  Wear a hat if it’s hot.

TAKE!
Remember to take these items with you on any hike, no matter how short.  You may

want to keep them handy in a small belt pack.

Take water with you any time of the year!!
Without enough water, your body simply can’t perform as well.  Water is also good for rinsing minor wounds.  You should have a filled water bottle (approximately l liter) for each person in cool weather and 3 liters in hot weather.

Take extra food.  Any number of things could keep you out longer than expected: a lengthy detour, getting lost, an injury or difficult terrain.

Take basic first aid materials including bandages, gauze, disinfectant and tape.   Take emergency medications if you have a medical condition that requires them!!

Take a whistle for signaling if you or someone else needs help.
A cell phone can be useful to call for help
but reception is poor in some Natura Areas.

Although our Natural Area trails close at sunset, a flashlight is a good idea because you may underestimate the time a trail will take and be out at dusk or later.


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