How to stay safe in nature
Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return.
Winter is a beautiful time to enjoy Gauteng’s many nature trails and other outdoor activities with family and friends.
If you’re heading into nature, Fidelity ADT advised that you consider safety, especially if you are going alone or are a tourist to SA.
Charnel Hattingh, the group head of marketing and communications at Fidelity ADT, reminded us that personal safety was a shared responsibility between the police, private security, other stakeholders and each individual of the public.
“It’s wonderful to explore new places and see things through different eyes, but be aware that venturing into the unfamiliar makes you vulnerable to getting lost or making a bad judgement call,” she said.
“Unfamiliar areas and routes may also be prone to rapidly changing weather or terrain, and many nature spots do not have good cellphone reception.
“To ensure any outing is memorable for the right reasons and that you can get help in an emergency, it is advisable to explore trails in groups. If a guide is not accompanying you, avoid isolated areas.”
ALSO READ: Essential tips for safe hiking
She offered these 10 tips for a safe outing:
1. Never hike alone. Four or more in a group is safer.
2. Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return. Send a pin location if you can.
3. Have at least one fully charged cellphone with you and ask beforehand about the reception in the area. Save emergency numbers.
4. Carry a well-stocked first-aid kit and be aware of anyone in the group with a medical condition or allergy.
5. Plan your route and stick to the designated paths to avoid getting lost. Allow ample time to finish the hike before it gets dark. If you are battling in daylight, things will likely worsen when you lose the light.
6. Don’t take risks or shortcuts, and respect restricted areas. There’s a good reason the sign says ‘no entry’.
7. Try not to carry other valuables apart from a cellphone.
8. Be wary of everyone you meet, especially suspicious ‘hikers’ who aren’t wearing hiking clothes or carrying a backpack. If confronted by a mugger, hand over your items without resistance. The mugger could have a knife or gun, and your cellphone or hiking boots are not worth your life.
9. Pack sufficient water and snacks.
10. Dress appropriately. Pack a warm jacket, no matter the weather. The weather can change quickly on hiking trails.
Emergency phone numbers to save on your cellphone:
• SAPS – 10111
• Crime Stop – 08600 10111
• Cellphone emergency – 112
• SA Tourism Helpline – 083 123 6789
• The control room of your private security provider
“Let’s not beat around the bush – criminals take advantage of any situation, appearing on hiking or cycling trails and robbing people. It is advisable to stay away from deserted picnic areas or isolated sites and do research before deciding on your outdoor adventure.
“Even if you know the area well, rather be safe than sorry by taking the necessary precautions before you set off. This way, everyone gets to keep special memories and returns home safely,” Hattingh concluded. “Much of what keeps us safe is just common sense.”
ALSO READ: Four Beautiful Hiking Trails in South Africa Worth Experiencing
