Campfire Discussion featuring MSC and Torpedo7: First Segment
In the great outdoors of New Zealand, it's important to be prepared for any eventuality. Here are some crucial tips to ensure your safety and comfort during your tramping or hiking adventures.
Firstly, in case of an emergency, make sure the injured person knows where they can find help. It's essential to have a plan and communicate it clearly.
When it comes to shelter, an emergency shelter is considered essential. A lightweight tent is recommended for easy transportation. Don't forget to pack a device for your emergency shelter, such as battery-powered lamps, solar lights, headlamps, battery-operated radios with spare batteries, and a fully charged power bank or emergency phone. Silver foil blankets, often called space blankets or emergency blankets, are effective for retaining body heat and are widely used as insulation in emergency situations.
If possible, try to find a way to call for help before leaving the injured person. This could be a satellite phone, a personal locator beacon, or even a loud whistle.
Boots are a crucial part of your outdoor gear. To dry boots, stuff them with newspaper, put them near a dehumidifier, clean them with a stiff brush, and reapply leather polish or waterproof spray. However, avoid drying boots in a microwave due to the risk of sparks.
When venturing into the wild, it's recommended to take at least one extra meal for an overnight tramp, an extra day's food for a tramp with river crossing, an extra day's food for a multi-day trip, and be prepared to spend a night out on a long day walk.
River or stream water may not be safe to drink without treatment, especially if it's discoloured or there are livestock, roads, or buildings upstream. Always carry a water purification method to ensure your water supply is safe.
Fire starting items are useful for finding kindling in huts, where there may not be an abundance of kindling provided. They are also recommended as part of a survival kit, even if a fire is not needed.
When dealing with hot spots, strapping tape and second skin products are effective solutions. However, the skin should be dry before application.
Lastly, it's not recommended to leave a vulnerable person in the group alone. Always ensure everyone in your group is accounted for and safe.
For weather forecasts, MetService and NIWA provide weather forecasts for national parks and selected huts and tracks in New Zealand. This information is invaluable for planning your outdoor adventures and ensuring you're prepared for any weather conditions.
By following these tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable outdoor adventure in New Zealand's beautiful wilderness. Happy tramping!
