- Plan to bring along two gallons of water per person, per day.
- Drink the water and do not economize.
- When the water is half gone, it’s time to turn back.
- Avoid hiking alone.
- Always inform a friend or family member your planned route and expected return.
- Carry a map and compass and know how to use them.
- Check the weather forecast before your hike, but recognize that desert weather can change suddenly. Carry a headlamp on every hike, even a short day hike.
- Carry a first aid kit.
- Add a comb and tape to your kit to remove cholla and other cactus spines from the skin.
Other suggested items for desert hikers include tweezers, safety pins, bandages of various sizes, antibiotic ointment, antiseptic towelettes, wound closure strips, moleskin or duct tape for blisters, compression bandage, ibuprofen, aspirin, antihistamine tablets, extra food and salty snacks, and an emergency blanket.
Know your skill level and do not take chances. The desert can be deadly, a little planning can keep you safe.
For Z107-7, I’m Gary Daigneault.
