Saturday, September 25, 2010

Hiking Safety Essentials

By Joe Davidson

Hiking and backcountry travel has increased in popularity over the past several years. All ages can easily participate and it is a great way to escape the challenges of city living. The exercise and fresh are added bonuses. And whether you are going out for one night or several, your enjoyment will be enhanced if your trip is organized and you are prepared for any challenge.

Experienced hikers and backcountry experts are quite familiar with the best equipment required to enjoy the trip. However, not many consider the need for personal self defense while in the wilderness. Unfortunately, crime is not limited to metropolitan areas and even though a cell phone might work while away from cities and roads, a 911 response might not be possible in the event of an emerging threat.

As you are packing, check your camping equipment and make sure that everything is in good order and you have included some personal defense products such as Defense Sprays, tasers, or stun guns.

Commonly known as "OC," pepper sprays or self defense sprays are very effective. When applied, they irritate the eyes and impede the vision of the threatening individual. These are non-life-threatening when applied and can be easily carried with a belt carrier or in a pocket. Pepper sprays are usually made up of highly concentrated cayenne pepper compounds and - believe it or not - are essentially organic in nature.

Taser International recently released the latest personal defense device for the general public, the Taser C2. The Taser C2 was specifically designed for the general public to truly feel safe in today's troubled times. TASER products are giving people the power they need to take control and protect themselves. The TASER C2 utilizes the same technology used in TASER International's law enforcement models to effectively stun an assailant up to fifteen feet away.

For all outdoor enthusiasts, safety should be the first consideration and it must be in front of the mind at all times. There can be several hazards in backpacking and a person who does not think about being safe could fall prey. Territorial wildlife is a commonly encountered threat when in the wilderness. Having the ability to think clearly, remain calm, and having a personal defense weapon readily available will decrease the chances of becoming a victim of an attack.

In 1974, a mass grave was discovered in a Washington state forest. These were found to contain the remains of several missing women from Washington and neighboring states. The notorious Ted Bundy was later identified as the assailant. Bundy appeared harmless enough to his victims and none had effective means of defending themselves.

The reasons people enjoy hiking and backpacking are many and varied. The great exercise, a sense of adventure and a love of nature are just a few. Remember though, that criminal behavior can occur outside one's city limits and being prepared to deal with an unexpected threat is essential to personal safety.

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