Social distancing guidelines are still in place in many areas of the country with stay at home restrictions loosening up in some states. Conflicting messages can make it difficult for people to know if it is safe for them to get outside and visit parks, national parks or trails. The warmer weather on the way makes us anxious to grab our trekking poles, stretch our legs and hit the trail.
Most medical experts agree that hiking is safe if hiking with someone from your household and the trail is not crowded. Some parks may ask hikers to postpone their trip while others may be open with social distancing guidelines and limited use of facilities.
Be sure that your park is open to hikers before heading out and know the proper etiquette to hike safely during the pandemic. Follow these tips to hike safely with social distancing:
1) Stay six feet apart from other hikers
We keep hearing about staying six feet apart to practice social distancing. To help you understand this distance, extend your trekking poles on each side of you and this should be your personal space.
2) Stay home if you or a household member is sick
While this might be obvious, before the pandemic we may have gone for a hike if we thought we just had a little cold. During this time, you should absolutely stay home if you feel sick or have any fever, or anyone in your household is ill. Since the incubation period for COVID-19 is 14 days, you could easily put others at risk even if you have no symptoms at all. Those that are experiencing even very mild symptoms should stay home until the entire household is feeling well.
3) Do not take any unnecessary risks
With the added strain on medical staff from coast to coast, an injury or incident requiring a rescue will further stretch the resources of emergency responders. You should try to avoid a potential hospital visit if at all possible.
Be smart, hike locally and with members of your household while maintaining a safe, six foot distance on the trail.
Cascade Mountain Tech for All Your Hiking Gear
We are all itching to get outside and the fresh mountain air may be the best medicine of all. Just be sure to respect the rules of social distancing to protect yourself and your fellow hikers. Cascade Mountain Tech offers everything you need for an awesome outdoor adventure including:
- High quality trekking poles
- Camping Chairs and stadium seating
- Camp bedding and mummy sleeping bags
Cascade Mountain Tech cares about your health and safety and we encourage you to continue to flatten the curve. We offer a wide selection of high quality hiking and camping gear for every outdoor adventure. We are here for you and urge you to contact us with any questions about hiking safely in any environment.
No comments:
Post a Comment