Officials say you should prepare for any situation before taking to area hiking trails this summer.
According to Habersham County Public Information Officer Rob Moore, Habersham County Emergency Services has responded to 84 calls for rescue at the nearly 30 hiking trails in the county over the past six years.
75% of the calls have come from two of the most popular trails in North Georgia: Tallulah Falls, and Panther Creek. (HCES responds to most calls at Tallulah Gorge but some calls do not get counted in their stats)
HCES offers the following tips and advice to be safe on the trail:
- If hiking with children or youth, know where they are and keep them in sight and in reach at all times.
- Be sure someone knows where you are going and when you will return.
- Cell phones are not a light source, not a map, not a survival kit, and not always going to have reception. While cellular phones are good to have, do not depend on them as your sole source of survival. Also, make sure your phone is charged before setting out on the trail because searching for a cell signal quickly drains the battery.
- Have a way to charge your phone so emergency personnel can pinpoint your location.
- Plan to avoid dehydration. That means you need more than just a 20-ounce bottle of water to keep you going on strenuous hikes, especially in hot or humid weather. Consider a hydration backpack or other ways to carry enough water and ensure that each member of your party does the same.
- Include emergency supplies if you get lost, stranded, or come upon someone in distress.
Pete Buak is a Georgia Appalachian Trail Club member and has been with the group for 20 years. He said his number one principle is to be prepared and plan accordingly.
“Part of your research should have been to know whether water is available on the trail or not,” said Buak. “But you're going to need water and you're going to need snacks. Be prepared for weather of any sort.”
Additionally, Buak suggested bringing a space blanket or a large trash bag in case of inclement weather.
Buak recommended familiarizing yourself with the trail you are planning to visit so that you can tell emergency services where you think you are.
Be prepared for wildlife such as black bears, yellow jackets and snakes. You can do this by packing a first aid kit with Sting ointment or Neosporin and bear spray. (If you have an allergy to insect stings, ensure you have an EpiPen.)
“Avoid cotton clothes, go for something that will wick moisture,” Buak said. “Synthetic cotton socks can be absolutely terrible if they get wet, they won't dry out and you'll end up with blisters.”
Additionally, Buak said do not wear sandals on the trail to avoid an injury to your feet.
Buak also said you should keep hiking trails clean and beautiful hikers abide by the “Leave No Trace” principle which encourages people to use the woods but you should not be able to tell you have been there.
It is important to always tell someone where and when your hike will be.
Lastly, Buak recommends joining a local hiking group like the GATC so you avoid hiking alone.
