If your travel plans include outdoor adventure, make sure your family’s gear, skills and smarts are up to speed. Here are five ways to prepare:
Be bear aware
Your goal during a hiking, fishing or camping experience is to avoid getting up close and personal with a bear. So while making plans, inquire about recent bear activity at your intended destination. Research shows that bear spray is effective, so have yours at the ready and know how to use it. Travel in groups of three or more and sing, tell stories or take turns shouting “Hey, bear!” to let wild creature know you are in the area. Hike during daylight hours, stay on trails and avoid berry patches and animal carcasses.
When camping, keep your tent and spaces clean and free of odors. (Remind the kids that stashing candy bars in sleeping bags could result in unintended consequences!) Don’t sleep in clothes worn to cook. Be sure to hang food and trash away from sleeping areas or in bear-proof containers.
For more: nps.gov/yell; www.fws.gov
Avoid lightning strikes
Teach your crew that “when thunder roars, go indoors.” When planning an activity, have a safety plan and know where you will meet should a storm develop. Watch for darkening skies, flashes of lightning and shifting and strengthening wind patterns. If you hear thunder, even at a distance, it is time to move to a sturdy building or hard-topped metal vehicle with windows closed, advises NOAA. Stay away from tall, isolated trees, utility poles or open areas. Avoid wires and metal fencing. Wait for 30 minutes after the last thunderclap to move outside. If someone is struck by lightning, call 911 and get immediate medical attention.