Читать книгу Urban Trails: Sacramento - John Soares - Страница 25
THE TEN ESSENTIALS
Оглавление1.Navigation. Carry a good map of the area encompassing your route and know how to read it. Typically, maps can be downloaded from the park website, or they may be available at the trailhead. Your cell phone can also be useful for navigation, but don’t rely solely upon it.
2.Headlamp. If you unexpectedly find yourself still on the trail after dark, you’ll be very glad to be able to see where you are going because you have a headlamp. Bring spare batteries. Most cell phones can also provide illumination (see if you need to download an app before you go), but using that function can quickly drain the battery.
3.Sun protection. Bring and use good sunscreen (rated at least SPF 30), along with a broad-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing. Bring all of these even on cloudy days; you never know when the sun will pop out.
4.First aid. Take a basic first-aid kit with bandages, blister prevention supplies, antiseptic, pain relievers, and tweezers. It’s a good idea to bring antihistamine tablets in case of an allergic reaction. Also bring essential prescription medications.
5.Knife. A small pocketknife can be useful for a variety of purposes.
6.Fire. It’s highly unlikely you’ll need to spend an unplanned night on the trails described in this book; however, if you have to and you truly need the warmth of a fire, you’ll be glad you are prepared. Bring a butane lighter or waterproof matches in a sealable bag; also bring something that easily burns, such as cotton balls, dryer lint, or a commercial firestarter.
7.Shelter. Even if you are not planning to be out overnight, bring something as basic as a large garbage bag or a rain poncho. Inexpensive and lightweight tarps and bivy sacks are also good options.
8.Extra food. Bring a substantial supply of nuts, trail mix, dried fruit, energy bars, and other healthy snacks.
9.Extra water. Bring more than enough water to keep you fully hydrated for the entire length of your hike, plus some extra. Include water purification tablets or a water filter in case you stay out longer than planned.
10.Extra clothes. Weather can change quickly. Be prepared for substantial drops in temperature by bringing extra layers and raingear. Make sure you have enough clothing to survive overnight, if necessary.