Know Before You Go

Backcountry Safety Starts Here

Before heading into the backcountry, it’s critical to follow the “Know Before You Go” guidelines to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Whether you are hiking, skiing, biking, or adventuring in any other way, being properly prepared is essential for an enjoyable and safe experience. This page provides key information and recommendations to help you plan your trips and stay safe in the wild.

Right! – Who will you be with? Is this the RIGHT route for the RIGHT group on the RIGHT day – see #5
Tell Someone – Where you are going, who you are with, when you plan to return and when to get help. Tell Someone if the plan changes
Make A Plan – Define the route that will be taken to the destination
Bring The Big 10 – see below
IF IN DOUBT DON’T GO – Heading out is an option – coming home is not.

TEN ESSENTIAL ITEMS

Navigation: map, compass, GPS device, personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger
Headlamp: plus extra batteries
Sun protection: sunglasses, sun-protective clothes and sunscreen
First aid: including foot care and insect repellent (as needed)
Knife
Fire: matches, lighter, tinder – have several ways to start a fire
Shelter: light emergency bivy
Extra food and water: Beyond the minimum expectation
Signaling devices: whistle and mirror
Extra clothes: Beyond the minimum expectation, contractor trash bag

There are several companies that create a variety of kits at differing price points – inve$t in your $afe return. The kit** demonstrated is the SOL / Survive Outdoors Longer – Hybrid 3 – retails between $40 – $60. As with any pre-fabricated kits – make certain that you can personalize it.

Examples: Medications | Water Purification | Fire Starters | Extra Clothes – t-shirt – to create slings / wound packing