Tell at least one person your plans on were you will be going and what time you will be back. Stick to your plans, or if possible notify your person of changes.
Know were to find help. When you check in, ask were can help be found.
Know the area you will be traveling in and what types of obstacles that you might incounter.
Never travel alone. It's very hard to administer first aid to yourself, and besides the company of another person is always more fun!
Learn to read a map and use a compass.
Learn basic first aid skills and have a good first aid kit. Always carry one with you.
Everyone wants to see animals in the wild. The safest way to do that is from a distance. The best way to keep the animals at a distance is to not sneak up on them. Make some noise as you walk to let them know that you are coming
Big cats: If you encounter a big cat; cougar or mountain lion:
Stay calm. Animals can sense fear.
Never try to run. This will entice the animal.
Keep an eye on the animal. Never loose eye contact.
Make yourself look as big as possible. Stand up tall. Puff out your clothes.
Make lots of noise.
Fight back. Big cats are sometimes frightened away when their prey fights back.
Always report a sighting or confrontation with a big cat.
Bears
Stay calm. Animals can sense fear.
NEVER touch a cub. The mother is always near.
If the bear attacks try and fight back.
Roll up in a ball and protect your head. If a bear thinks you are dead, it might not bother you.
Always report a sighting or confrontation
Throw rocks or sticks, but do not
Before your trip you should learn basic first aid. Take a class if at all possible. Read some books, but make sure that they are up to date. Some recommended treatments have changed over the years!
Some extra things that you should have in your first aid kit are:
Cell phone. Make sure it works in the are you are before you need it!
Whistle and mirror. Every person should have a whistle and know how to use it. The signal for I need help is 3 short blows, repeated until you get help. The signal for I hear you, is two short blows, repeated until you find the person. NEVER let a child play-blow a whistle. This will cause the cry wolf, and as in the story, no help will come.
A piece of plastic wrap folded and put in a zipper bad. This is great to have to help stop bleeding, especially in a sucking wound.
Gloves. If it's a family member or you know the person, you might not need these. But if it's a stranger always wear gloves!
An emergency blanket.
Snake bites. Using a snake bit kit is out. You are more likely to seriously injure yourself with a snake bite and possible bleed to death. Instead, immobilize the area, and seek medical attention immediately!
Sprains and strains. Immobilize the area. Apply ice and. Take an anti-inflammatory such as Ibuprofen or aspirin, if available. Rest the injured body part.
Falls. If person is unconscious, clear and airway. Don't move them unless they are in more danger were they are at. Send someone for help.
You get lost. If you don't know were you are or believe that you can find your way back safely, stay put. Use your whistle or mirror. Remember 3 short blows means I NEED HELP! Be prepared to possible spend the night in that spot. Be on the lookout for passer byes.