Backcountry safety all comes down to planning, experts say

May 29, 2010

Ben Arians at Alaska Mountaineering and Hiking says being poorly clothed while hiking can lead to exposure -- and sensations of being warm. (Shawn Wilson/KTUU-DT)

by Rebecca Palsha
Friday, May 28, 2010

ANCHORAGE, Alaska -- If you're heading out of town this Memorial Day weekend for some hiking, authorities have a warning: be prepared for what Mother Nature might have in store.

With a long weekend ahead and even longer trails, it's hard to resist getting out and going up. But before you go, hit the store for some supplies.

"Something like this, it has a hood on it, it's super-light," said Ben Arians at Alaska Mountaineering and Hiking, displaying a poncho. "You can wad it up into a ball and you may never use it on your trip if things are going properly, but this is not much of a weight sacrifice to make."

Experts say avoiding problems and knowing your skill level are the keys to staying safe. It means stocking up on supplies, drinking lots of water and being prepared for what could happen.

"If you're not dressed properly, that's the thing with exposure is that you get stupid when it happens, and your mind turns off and you think you actually feel warm," Arians said.

"Make sure you have plenty of water, good shoes, proper clothing," said Chugach State Park Chief Ranger Matt Wedeking.

It also means making sure everyone else knows where you're going.

"If you're going out, file a trip plan, tell them where you're going to go. Tell them how long you're going to be gone, tell them what supplies you're bringing -- that's the main thing," Wedeking said.

Experts also recommend taking a cell phone, but don't rely on it completely because of uneven cell phone coverage.

Contact Rebecca Palsha at rpalsha@ktuu.com

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