Safety in the Ten Essentials

We've been over this before but I was recently out hiking with a Colorado RC who had never heard of the Ten Essentials. She's even an Outdoor Education Instructor so needless to say, I was surprised.

I happened to be out hiking with this RC as well as a 14-year-old girl, an aspiring outdoorswoman, if you ask me. We were doing a short, hour and a half hike, up 9 Mile Mountain (not actually 9 miles) and the entire adventure was on a whim. In that I didn't have time to prep for this hike, I found myself without a daypack or any of the essential items I always bring on a hike. I was nothing short of embarrassed to be called out for not having water with me by my teenage compadre. Some example I was setting! Teaching this young woman that it's okay to trek off into the wilderness without being properly outfitted. Ugh!

So, in light of that experience, I thought a refresher course would be appropriate. Without further adieu...the Ten Essentials and why they should always be with you on your adventures.

1. Water- Not only for your hike, but bring a little extra, just in case

2. Extra Food - You'll probably want a snack anyway so why not pack an extra apple or fruit leather? The fruit leathers are great because they last a long time in your pack so no need to worry about food going rotten in your daypack! The same goes for powerbars and the like.

3. Map - Always bring a map of the area in which your hiking. These are often available at trailheads or you can order them in advance online. In the event there is only a master trail map posted, I have taken a photo of it on my phone to reference if needed.

4. Compass - Having a compass will only work if you a) know how to use it and b) know where you started. Classes are pretty easy to find. Also consider one with a sighting mirror to use as a signaling device.

5. Knife - In case you need to cook a squirrel for dinner after getting stranded

6. Matches/Flint/Lighter - You'll need a fire to cook that squirrel and stay warm when the temperature drops. Make sure you've tried your system together. Do you know how to use flint? Is your lighter wind proof? Are you matches stored so they can't get wet?

7. Extra Clothing - Pack weather appropriate. Bring rain gear or an extra down jacket (they're VERY compressible). I would also advise extra heavy socks and gloves for winter hikes

8. Fire starter - Lichen hanging from trees can be used. Dryer lint is an amazing fire starter from home. I also like cotton balls slathered in petroleum jelly (kept in a baggie or old film canister).

9. Headlamp - Even if you're hiking during the day, one wrong turn has you out at night. It's not easy to do anything on a hiking trail without light.

10. First aid kit - Bring the basics for moderate cuts and bruises. Make sure you tailor your kit to the number of people you'll have on your hike as well as to the type of terrain you'll be on (rocky areas lead to twisted ankles, steep hills could mean falls).

Other Ideas

Sunglasses

Sunscreen/Bug Spray

And Emergency Shelter or Blanket

Gear repair kit and tools

Whistle

Communication Device