Backcountry Safety Awareness

Make sure you are ready for what may lie ahead when you hit the trails in the summer. Visits to the emergency room spike during warmer months. Some accidents are unavoidable but you can reduce your chances of needing to see our team by planning ahead and taking extra precautions. Here are some of our top tips:

1. Make a Checklist.

Whether you are headed on a backpacking trip, river rafting adventure, ATVing in the sand dunes or just spending the day outside, take the time to figure out all the gear and supplies you will need. It is easy to forget critical items, like water, a rain jacket or flashlight, and it even happens to the most experienced outdoorspeople. Set yourself up for success by writing out a checklist, cross items off the list as you put them into your pack or gear bag. If you are not sure what you need, check out this gear list for inspiration. Mistakes often happen when we try to rush ourselves, so, if possible, try to pack in advance. This will even give you extra time to run out and grab extra supplies if you notice something is missing from your list.

2. Stay Hydrated.

In the summer, it is so important to drink enough water. If you become dehydrated, you can easily become disoriented, exhausted and, in the worst of circumstances, seriously ill. It is recommended that you drink eight 8-10 ounce glasses of water per day, or half of your body weight in ounces. If you are spending multiple days outdoors, make sure you pack a high-quality water filter and carefully pick where you collect your water. Ideally, you want to look for a clear stream or river. Bacteria is less likely to grow in moving water. If you need to collect water from a lake, try to find a spot where there isn’t a lot of sediment. Also make sure animals haven’t been grazing too close to your water source.

3. Watch the Weather.

Conditions can change quickly in the summer, so always take the time to look at the forecast. Remember, the weather can be more harsh at higher elevations. So, pack warmer clothing if you plan to stay overnight and always have rain gear on hand, just in case there is an unexpected storm. Weather doesn’t just impact the type of clothes you need to bring along, it can alter the conditions you will find on the trails. A rainstorm can make a once simple stream into a treacherous river you need to cross. Thunderstorms also have the potential to spark wildfires in Idaho’s dry climate. Stay aware and be open to altering your route depending on the conditions you face.

4. Pack a First Aid Kit.

An injury that would be easy to address in town can be another story in the wilderness. Throw along a first aid kit, so you are ready in case something goes wrong. Most outdoor stores sell great pre-packaged first aid kits. However, you can also build your own if you prefer. Make sure to include a wrap for sprained ankles, antihistamines, medicines for pain relief and supplies to treat blisters and wounds. Make sure you know how to properly use all of the supplies in your first aid kit. It is also important to check your kit regularly to see if new supplies need to be added. If you are heading deeper into the backcountry, consider taking a CPR class or wilderness first aid course.

5. Dress for Success.

Having the proper clothing and gear can make your time in the mountains much more enjoyable. It can be dangerous if you find yourself in a situation where you do not have enough clothing, so always make sure to dress in layers. Have a warmer layer you can add and another layer you can take off if it is too hot. Prioritize functionality over fashion. Look for fabrics that are breathable and can help wick moisture away from your skin. Polyester and wool are great options. And remember never to skip the safety equipment. If helmets and sunglasses are recommended for your outing, wear them! A little extra weight is worth the added protection.

6. Be Aware of Wildlife.

Be prepared to come face to face with animals when you’re exploring. Most wildlife is harmless and will try to avoid you at all costs. However, it is important to know how to respond if you run into an animal that is dangerous. Idaho is home to a fair number of black bears and mountain lions. In case you run into either, do not run away. Instead, stand your ground and make yourself look as big as you possible can. Make as much noise as possible, avoiding any high-pitching screaming (which can be interpreted as the cry of a hurt animal). If you are attacked, do not play dead – fight back. Another creature to be mindful of is rattlesnakes. If you see a rattlesnake or hear their rattle, do your best to get away as quickly as possible. If you are bit by a rattlesnake, it is imperative you seek medical attention as quickly as possible.

Exploring the backcountry during the winter can present an entirely new set of challenges. As snow falls and temperatures slowly rise, the risk of avalanches steadily rises. If you plan to explore the mountains, either by foot or snowmobile, take every precaution you can to keep yourself safe. Click on one of the videos below to get helpful tips you can use from Bonneville County Sergeant Chris Smith.

Winter Safety

Avalanche Awareness

Snowmobiles