Ways be prepared r trouble on the trail

short hike can be a wonderful thing, especially here in the Bay Area. But every year, it’s not unheard of for people to get lost or injured while visiting one of the Bay Area’s many open spaces and local, regional, state and national parks. According to park officials and hiking experts, ns more frequently than most people realize. ly takes some bad luck or perhaps a poor decision to change an easy hike ngerous situation,” said Jane Huber, founder of the Bay er website and author of the book, “60 Hikes Within 60 n Francisco.” r said hikers who flock to Bay Area parks looking for ess to nature often assume they are “safe” because they nturing into backcountry wilderness. But nature is filled ny hazards: disorienting forests, deep ravines, lonely beaches, aves, steep and rocky terrain and surprisingly isolated spots hers never pass. This winter’s torrential rain destabilized turned shallow creeks into raging rivers and caused nt trail erosion. And if you need help, that cell phone will s, if there’s no signal.

RNIA STATE PARKS AND U.S. FOREST SERVICE RECOMMEND THAT YOU:

buddy. If you’re hiking in ugged area, bring three; if njured, one person can stay hile the other two hike for help. omeone where you plan to hike u plan to return.

er map, a whistle and a fully l phone. Pay attention to signs and trail junctions.

hlight or headlamp; people derestimate how long a hike d darkness falls swiftly on a .

Carry plenty of water — at least 2 quarts per person per day — and food.

Wear sunscreen, a hat, sturdy, comfortable shoes and layered clothing.

Bring a basic first aid kit with bandages, gauze, disinfectant and surgical tape.

Stick to established trails, avoid closed areas and exercise extreme caution when conditions are icy, slippery or muddy. If you encounter wildlife — mountain lions, coyotes, rattlesnakes — back away slowly; don’t run.