NORTHWEST WEATHER WATCH
Wilderness Tips
A local organization - The Mountaineers - is an
excellent resource for anyone planning expeditions
to wilderness or mountain areas.
The Mountaineers publish books, provide training,
and offer group excursions to wilderness areas.
Their mission is "to explore, study, preserve, and
enjoy the natural beauty of the Northwest."
A free pamphlet on their shelves - Hiking Safety and the 10
Essentials offers the following guidelines:
- Don't hike alone.
- Be in good physical condition.
- Leave the trip schedule with a responsible person.
- Stay with your group.
- Carry the Ten Essentials (Plus).
- And don't forget to take along your common sense!
The 10 Essentials (Plus)
- Extra Clothing: Rain gear
Wool or polypropylene
(cotton is a no-no)
- Extra Food: Requiring no cooking
High in carbohydrates
Lightweight
- First Aid Kit
- Sunglasses
- Pocketknife
- Firestarter: Candle stubs or solid
chemical fuel
- Matches: In a waterproof container
(or a Butane lighter)
- Flashlight: With extra batteries and
bulb
- Map: USGS or Green Trails
- Compass
These items should also be regarded as essential:
- Full water bottle
- Water treatment
- Toilet Paper
- Sunscreen
- Insect Repellant
- Ground insulation
- Space blanket
- Tube tent
- Whistle
For more information go to:
Olympia Branch Mountaineers
Project Safeside: Keeping you ahead of the Storm