| Hiking can be a very enjoyable yet dangerous | | | | Another safety feature that should always be |
| experience. It is very important that the hiker has | | | | carried is a first aid kit. In the event that a person |
| all the appropriate hiking equipment when going | | | | gets hurt the first aid kit will prove useful. |
| out on the trail. | | | | A flashlight and spare batteries are a very smart |
| The first thing that a hiker should always carry is | | | | thing to carry when out on the trails. A person |
| a map. A person should always plan out the hike | | | | should always carry a flashlight even in the |
| intended and have a map handy in case any | | | | daytime. Complications may arise and the person |
| detours are needed. A map will prove useful if the | | | | may not get back before dark, if this were to |
| hiker happens upon a trail that has been blocked | | | | happen the person would need the flashlight. |
| or closed. | | | | Emergency rain gear and waterproof matches |
| A compass is another essential item that should | | | | should also be carried at all times. Sometimes the |
| always be carried when out hiking. The person | | | | weather can be unpredictable and it is always |
| also needs to make sure that they know how to | | | | better to be prepared than to be wet and |
| use the compass. A variety of things can | | | | freezing. |
| interfere with the reading, so it is very important | | | | Bugs and insects are always outdoors, therefore |
| to know how to properly use it. | | | | it is smart to have insect repellent on hand. |
| Another tool that is very smart to have on hand | | | | Sunscreen is also a smart thing to carry to |
| is a pocket knife. It is smart to have the pocket | | | | prevent sunburns. |
| knife in a pocket, and not a backpack, so it is at | | | | Food and water is absolutely essential to carry at |
| easy access if needed. There are many different | | | | all times. Water is needed to prevent dehydration |
| uses of a pocket knife, especially the Swiss Army | | | | and food is needed to keep up a healthy energy |
| style knives. A hiker will be glad to have it when | | | | level. In the event that an emergency occurred |
| the need arises. | | | | and the hiker could not get home soon, food and |
| An excellent safety feature to have is a whistle. | | | | water would be needed to help sustain the body. |
| A whistle carries louder and farther than the | | | | Hikers should always remember safety first and |
| human voice, and might be needed in the case of | | | | always have these essential hiking equipment with |
| an emergency. | | | | them. |