Hiking is an exciting way of spending time and family outdoors as it is not only good for human fitness, but also provides a chance to interact and appreciate the nature. Spending time hiking also helps ease our minds after busy days at works both at home and office thereby bringing relaxation and rejuvenation. Individuals going for a hike need to prepare adequately and understand their surroundings before embarking on a hike to ensure their safety and the safety of others as well as wildlife safety, if their area of hike is inhabited by wildlife.
Preparation for the hike is highly influenced by the individuals taking part in it. For instance, if the hike includes children or individuals under special medication, the members should ensure that there is enough supply of food and medicine enough for unexpected uncertainties such as getting lost in the woods. The team must always ensure that they keep the kids safe by not carrying prohibited items such as guns or any forms of non-medicinal drugs. Aside from these the hiking team should ensure they have enough stock of water and matches together with tents and warm clothes in case they want to spend a night on the hike. Furthermore, they should have a compass, back up chargers for their gadgets and flashlights. Finally, the team must ensure that they have a map of the area especially if they are not familiar with the territory. Once a checklist of these necessities are complete and the team is geared for the hike, the team can embark in their hike with a clear understanding of the laws governing their hiking grounds, such as the wildlife parks. It is vital for the members of the hiking team to stick together at all times.
Hikers must always avoid unnecessary noises from their gadgets or loud talks as these may disrupt wildlife in their natural habitats. Animals rely on natural sounds for communication and interfering with these may hinder their chances of survival. Additionally, other hikers in different groups need to appreciate the peace and quiet. The team must also be careful of trail conditions as walking on muds and swamps may be dangerous for them. In case of a wildlife encounter, the team must keep their distance as getting too close to wildlife could make them feel threatened prompting them to attack in self-defence which could be dangerous. Hikers must also maintain good relations with other groups if any, as they can provide support in case the group encounters challenges deep in the wild. They must always adhere to the signage of the trails of and follow it the right way to avoid getting lost.
Aside from the etiquettes discussed above, hikers must always ensure that they adhere to country laws at all times. Carrying firearms or other dangerous items such as bows and arrows in the open are prohibited as they pose a danger to the group, others and the wildlife. Discharging these items in public also attract a heavy fine. Also, littering and dumping plastic food containers in the wild is illegal as they not only pollute the environment, but pose a danger to the animals if they eat them. Hikers must also ensure fire safety and avoid bush fires and put out camp fires before leaving. With all these in mind, the individuals will enjoy their interaction with the environment without interrupting the wildlife. This way they will be safe from dangers and any fines for breach of law.
