Hiking Safety

Hiking and being outdoors with children provide not only physical exercise but as the child gets older also an opportunity for learning, from planning, preparation, to learning about different ecosystems. Even with just a day hike, being properly prepared from layers of clothing to emergency equipment is vital in case of an unfortunate event of becoming stranded or getting lost. In addition to the safety aspect is makes the hike much more enjoyable in being able to accommodate various weather changes as well. If you are planning a camp out, see the campfire safety video before your trip.

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Day Hike Checklist

• Backpack
  
• Trail map
• Compass
  
• Water in canteen/water bottle
  
• Water treatment system
• Pocket knife
  
• Snacks
• Convertible pants/shorts
• Lightweight shirt
• Fleece
• Outer jacket
• Extra clothing
• Sunglasses
• Hat
• Insect repellent
• Sunscreen
• First aid kit (know how to use everything in it)
• Snake bite kit
• Poison ivy cream/cleansers
• Mole skin for blisters
• Small flashlight
• Whistle
• Toilet paper/plastic bag
• Before leaving, tell people at home where you are hiking

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Campfire Safety

Here are some basic fire safety tips. However, for more information, see this short CalFire fire safety video before your camp out.

• Get a campfire permit
• Check local fire restrictions
• Choose a safe location
• Clear a minimum of 10 feet around your fire
• Have a responsible adult in attendance
• Extinguish your fire with the "drown, stir & feel" 
  

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Clothing and Layering

Hiking Supplies

Hydration and Energy

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