In Maine, adventure seekers are fortunate to have numerous trails to explore and mountains to climb. While hitting the trail is beneficial for us both physically and mentally, accidents can happen whether you’re a beginner or an expert. Therefore, preparing before you head out can help minimize the risk of injury or even getting lost.
“I love seeing people explore the outdoors. There is so much to see, but preparation is key,” says Cecily Swinburne, MD, an emergency medicine physician at Northern Light Eastern Maine Medical Center, who is also an experienced wilderness rescuer. “If you are new to hiking or trying out a new wilderness activity, start off slowly on easier and more frequently used trails, and slowly move to more challenging trips as you gain experience. There are plenty of options to choose from in our backyard.”
If you are looking for what you need to know before you head out on your next adventure, Dr. Swinburne shares five tips to stay safe while exploring the great outdoors:
- The buddy system: It’s always best to explore the wilderness with a buddy. Ankle and knee injuries are common, and if you become unable to walk, your partner can seek help. Dr. Swinburne explains, “It doesn’t take much to roll an ankle or injure a knee on uneven terrain. If the injury is bad enough, you may need to wait in place while someone finds help.” If you’re hiking alone, Dr. Swinburne recommends you let someone know where and when you’re hiking.
- Shifting weather: Changes in elevation, sudden storms, and other factors can make a huge difference in temperature and your personal safety and comfort. Dr. Swinburne recommends carrying plenty of water, snacks, electrolytes, a hat, and sunscreen. She also suggests packing layers, including a jacket that repels water and a sweatshirt or fleece. “If you get hurt or lost, it could be hours before help can get to you. So, it’s best to have what you need to stay comfortable for a long length of time.”
- First aid: A blister or bug bite can put a damper on your outing. Simply having a small first aid kit in hand with bandages, ointment, ibuprofen, allergy medication, and even an epinephrine injector (if you’re allergic to insect bites or stings) is important. Also, consider any personal medications you may be taking.
- Remain calm: Even the savviest hiker can easily end up off course. If you become lost, Dr. Swinburne reminds us to stay calm. “Remember to breathe,” she says. “The last thing you want to do is walk in circles. When in doubt, stay put.” Having an item that can reflect or something shiny, like a mylar blanket, increases your visibility. She also suggests carrying a hardcopy map and compass and knowing how to use them.
- Communication is key: Many remote areas of Maine are without cell service, and your battery can die quickly. Newer phones can use GPS satellite to call 9-1-1, but if that’s not an option, you can also carry a separate GPS device that may allow you to contact first responders. Mirrors or reflective blankets and emergency whistles may also help flag down responders.