If you’re an outdoor enthusiastic residing in North Carolina or gearing up for a vacation to the area in the near future, then you couldn’t have picked a better place. From scenic overlooks to challenging trails, North Carolina has much to offer in the way of outdoor activities of all levels. Unfortunately, the downside to becoming one with nature is that by doing so, you could end up exposing yourself to a host of injuries and ailments. For this reason, it’s important to approach your outdoor adventures with the proper amount of planning and caution.
As a physician at Doctors Express, a High Point, North Carolina urgent care facility equipped to treat everything from sudden ailments to broken bones, Dr. Scott Murkin is no stranger to outdoor injuries. He therefore offers the following tips on how to stay safe in the great outdoors:
Think ahead
If you’re looking to stay safe and healthy on your upcoming outdoor excursion, then take the time to think long and hard about the elements you’re likely to face. If you’re going to be heading out on a hot summer’s day, then make sure to bring plenty of water and a generous supply of sunscreen; and if you’re heading out in cooler temperatures, then make a point of dressing in layers. Also, don’t forget that by becoming immersed in nature, you’re likely to expose yourself to a variety of skin-sucking insects and bugs. To avoid some nasty bites, use some type of repellent to protect yourself accordingly.
Learn your poisons
As you make your way through the woods, you’re likely to encounter some elements that can wreak havoc on your body and skin. For this reason, it’s important to be able to identify skin-sensitizing plans such as poison ivy. Additionally, certain types of wild berries are known to be unsafe and poisonous. Unless you truly know your stuff, never eat anything you find along a trail.
Bring a first aid kit
Sometimes no matter how carefully you plan, accidents and injuries do happen. Unfortunately, when you’re deep in the middle of the woods, the nearest medical facility may not exactly be near. Therefore, when heading on an outdoor excursion, always bring a basic first aid kit with you. Supplies such as instant ice packs, bandages, and ointment can make a huge difference in the event of an on-the-spot emergency. Also, if you are allergic to certain insects, bring medication such as Benadryl to avoid a problem in the event of an expected sting; and if your allergies are truly severe, then be sure to pack your EpiPen.
Wear proper gear
Ankle turns and breaks are all too common during hiking season. To avoid injury, invest in a good pair of hiking boots and never hit the trails without them. You should also dress for your outings in accordance with the weather. On warmer days, wear sweat-wicking, breathable clothing; and on colder days, use wool and fleece garments to layer up. Also, if you’re going to be hiking, then don’t forget that higher elevations can bring about cooler temperatures.
Avoid dehydration
As you make your way across a challenging trail, you’re likely to expend a fair amount of energy. To keep yourself safe, it’s important that you drink plenty of fluids in order to avoid dehydration. In fact, you should always bring plenty of water with you on an outdoor trip (don’t assume that the running water alongside your trails is clean). If you’d rather not lug around tons of water, then bring along some water purification tablets. Also, when you’re out on the trails, don’t wait until you’re thirsty to first start drinking, especially in warmer temperatures. Instead, make a habit of sipping your water at timed intervals to keep your body energized and refreshed.
Know your limits
As great as it may be to approach your upcoming outdoor adventure with a “can-do” attitude, it’s also important to be aware of your personal physical limits. If you haven’t been hiking in awhile, then don’t start the season by tackling the most challenging trail in the region. Instead, take the time to work your way up.
Tell someone where you’re going
In today’s cell phone-dependent society, people tend to assume that they’ll be able to communicate with others at all times. However, much of the deep woods doesn’t have cell phone towers and reception. As an added safety measure, let someone know where you’re going before heading out on a hike; this way, that person will know to call for help if you for some reason don’t return on schedule.
The information in the article is not intended to substitute for the medical expertise and advice of your healthcare provider. We encourage you to discuss any decisions about treatment or care with an appropriate healthcare provider.
