Sunday, 8 March 2015

Survival Gear For Various Outdoor Activities

By Leslie Ball


Doing things outdoors and in the wilderness like hiking and exploring can be a lot of fun. Such adventures can be quite thrilling, but they are also very dangerous, particularly if one is unprepared for any given emergency situation. Survival gear is of the utmost importance when indulging in outdoor activities that could present unexpected dangers. Being aware of what is needed and having the necessary equipment ready at all times during the activity could go a long way in both protecting and also rescuing anyone from any serious dangers.

Before worrying about any equipment that is needed for the adventure, it is imperative to ensure that the right clothes and shoes are purchased for the activity. The correct footwear is not negotiable for extreme activities like hiking, rock or mountain climbing. Most terrains will require that one wears a heavy duty boot that offers a lot of support to the foot, particularly the ankle. Make sure that the boots are lace properly and tightly at all times to maintain stability.

The reason for wearing a pair of heavy duty boots is so that nothing dangerous can penetrate and get to your foot, causing serious damage. For example, you could stumble upon an old animal trap that could close on your foot, or you could walk through dangerous foliage like poison ivy. Furthermore, you could also get bitten by an animal like a snake and the shoes will protect you in this event. You can purchase this type of footwear from any good camping store.

Also important when wearing the proper footwear is to insulate the feet as well with good socks. These will prevent blisters from excessive walking and can also protect further up the leg. Wearing two pairs of socks may be a good idea in colder climates. Layering clothing throughout is a good way to travel light, leaving room to carry everything else but still keeping warm enough.

There are lots of options for apparel that is specific to outdoor activity. Thermal underwear is a must for colder climates. Outerwear comes in all shapes and sizes, offering extra insulation and made up of specialty fabrics that keep out extreme weather conditions and protect the body.

Anything else you wear should be for the purpose of protecting parts of your body. Invest in a good pair of goggles with UV protection so that your eyes are safe from the sun but also from dust when it's windy. Protect your head as well, if you must, depending on what kind of activity you are doing.

A first aid kit is an essential component of any survival equipment. This kit should contain a number of items that will stabilize anyone injured until they can get proper help. These items should include an assortment of bandages, tape, topical cream for bites or rashes, alcohol and scissors. A syringe, a pair of tweezers, an ice pack, cream for burns and safety pins are also necessary, as well as a proper blanket.

Tools are a must for outdoor activities, and a really good pocket knife is one key tool. Having rope at hand is also recommended. The correct tools will depend on the activity itself. Also include in any survival kit the right snacks and non perishable foods for energy and nutrients. Travel as lightly as possible, only taking the necessities.




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