Are you the type of person who absolutely loves being outdoors, and exploring the woods in your area is one of your favorite pastimes? Maybe you are someone who enjoys hunting or fishing, and these hobbies tend to bring you far into the bush, away from civilization? Perhaps you have had bad experiences getting lost or hurt in the woods in the past, and you are not overly eager to repeat the experience?
If any of this sounds like you, then be sure to keep reading in order to learn some helpful tips and tricks that you can use on your next excursion. This article will seek to provide you with a handy guide to staying safe in the woods. You owe it to yourself to always stay as safe as possible when out in the bush.
Water
In order to survive, humans need water. This is a fact of life that there is no way to get around, and it also applies to you when you are out in the woods. It is often recommended that most people try and drink 8 cups of water per day, but if you are out in the woods sweating, then you should probably have even more than that.
There are many different types of water canteens and reusable water bottles that are extremely convenient for bringing out on a hike in your bag. You never know what is going to happen, so it is always smart to have a little bit of extra water just in case. Dehydration is very serious and can lead to poor decisions and even death. Don’t take a chance and always carry water with you in the woods.
Compass
Unless you are extremely familiar with the area where you plan to hunt, fish, or hike, it is probably a good idea to bring some kind of compass with you. Compasses can help you to find where you are when you get lost, and also aid in the process of navigating using a map. Early explorers did not have maps and had to rely on experience guides and devices like a compass in order to orient themselves and stay safe.
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Related article: Top 23 Best Compass for Hiking 2024
Phone
In modern times, it is extremely common for most people to have a smartphone with them most of the time. This means that if you have a phone with you in the woods, then you have a great survival tool that will help you stay safe. Sometimes you might find yourself in an area where you don’t get very good cell phone service, so you will have to look for some alternative ways to get in contact with people if necessary.
Gun
Depending on the area you live in, it may or may not be essential to bring a gun with you when you are out in the wilderness. Certain areas of the west coast have extremely high populations of grizzly bears and other dangerous animals like cougars. It can be dangerous to not have a weapon with you since there is a high likelihood that you will encounter one of these apex predators. If you are not comfortable with a gun, then there are other types of survival gear that can also help to keep you safe. Do some research and you should be able to find a product that will keep you safe.
Knife
Another incredibly common survival tool that many people include in their gear pack when they head into the woods is a pocket knife. These amazing tools come in a number of shapes and sizes, and can even have some incredible utilities that can help you out in the woods. One of the most common types of pocket knives is the Swiss army knife, which has become a symbol of the outdoors to many people. A good knife can literally be a lifesaver in some situations and can allow you to do a number of things such as make a shelter or even hunt in some cases. Check out some of the different swiss army knives on the market, and you will be sure to find something that you love!
Flashlight
Sometimes you take an unexpected turn in the woods and end up a little bit lost as it starts to get dark out. Having a flashlight with you at all times can be a huge asset when out in the woods, and can help you to stay on the path and get home to safety much quicker than stumbling around in the dark would. There are many models of small flashlights on the market that will allow you to carry one with you in your backpack at all times.
Related article: Top 26 Best Camping Flashlight Review in 2024
Boots
When you are walking through the woods, there tend to be things on the ground that you would rather not subject your bare feet to. Lots of hikers like to use boots that are specifically designed for hiking in rough terrain to help protect their feet while in the woods. Having good ankle support from your boots will also help to avoid injuries like a sprained ankle, which can be a huge issue when you are far from your car or camp.
Clothing
It is extremely important to make sure that you have clothing that is appropriate for the weather in the area where you are hiking. This will help to keep you warm and protected from the elements, regardless of what mother nature throws at you.
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After checking out some of the different tips and tricks listed above, the hope is that you have discovered some new ways to always stay safe when you are out in the woods enjoying nature. Whether or not you are a hunter, fisher, or just someone who enjoys hiking, you always need to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.
There are many natural hazards in forests, such as harmful plants, animals, landscapes, and many others. The more well prepared you are, the more likely you will be to handle the situation with a level head and get yourself out to safety. Don’t put yourself or your companions at risk unnecessarily. Make the smart decision and start incorporating some or all of these ideas into your own practices.
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