Safety Disclaimer
Many of the activities I describe here on the Northern California Hiking Trails blog involve traveling to outdoors areas and then walking and doing related activities in those areas. As with any activity, there are potential dangers involved. These potential dangers can include, but are not limited to:
- driving to and from the outdoors area
- difficult terrain that can result in falls
- weather extremes, including floods, lightning, rain, snow, and high temperatures
- animals
- insects
- getting lost
- injury and death
You are responsible for your own safety. This requires that you
- be fully prepared for contingencies
- are in good enough physical condition
- pay attention to where you’re going
- bring the proper equipment and supplies
The classic list of the Ten Essentials from The Mountaineers Books has evolved from a list of individual items to a list of functional systems:
- Navigation (map and compass)
- Sun protection (sunglasses and sunscreen)
- Insulation (extra clothing)
- Illumination (headlamp or flashlight)
- First-aid supplies
- Fire (firestarter and matches/lighter)
- Repair kit and tools (including knife)
- Nutrition (extra food)
- Hydration (extra water)
- Emergency shelter
