Walking Connection - Surviving An Unexpected Night In The Outdoors

Surviving an Unexpected Night in the Outdoors
by Tony Nester, Outdoor Expert and Contributing Writer

If you will be hiking in an area where the temperature could become very cool after the sun goes down and the weather might change from what you expected, there are 3 simple steps you can take to help survive the night.

Imagine this scenario: You are hiking in the woods when you become disoriented and lose your way back to the trailhead and your vehicle. Nightfall is only an hour away and the temperature is already dropping. Add to this the dark clouds looming in the distance and you could be in for a very long night of cold and suffering. Your survival is in your own hands now and you had better know what to do and how to do it FAST!

As the old adage says, "An ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure!" A little advanced planning can keep you from ending up in a survival situation says Tony Nester, survival instructor and author of the book Practical Survival Tips, Tricks, and Skill.

"The first step is to leave your travel plans with someone. If you are overdue, searchers can get to you much quicker if they know the exact trail you started hiking on. Let a friend or family member know precisely where you are going and when you will return."

The second element is to be prepared. "Carrying a few key items in your pockets will serve as insurance in the event you do have to spend the night out in the cold. Cool and cold weather recreationists should carry, at the minimum, a lighter, pocketknife, a garbage bag (which can serve as an emergency poncho, ground pad, and more), a whistle for signaling, hat and gloves, water bottle. Candy and nutritional bars can also provide you with quick energy. Taking these basic items can help you make it through the night and greet the morning sunrise.

The third element is to know your limits and when it's time to turn back. Use common sense and don't over-extend yourself. Using that incredible survival tool between your ears is as important as knowing how to use the gear in your pack. Before you hit the trail again, go through these three preventative measures and remember that Mother Nature favors the prepared.

Editor's Note: Tony Nester is a Flagstaff-based survival trainer who runs his own company called Ancient Pathways. He has been training people in the elements of survival skills for the last 16 years. He also teaches survival classes at Northern Arizona University for the forestry school and the military science school. For additional information on survival courses or to purchase Tony Nester's book, visit his web site at: apathways.com.

Featured Hiking Links:
American Hiking Society - From the halls of Congress to the backcountry, AHS speaks up for America's hikers.
Explorer's Club of Pittsburgh - Great Multisport site in PA
Spice UK - Great Multisport site in the UK!
Rails to Trails Conservancy - National Organization - Walk The Rails With Them.

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