Follow Us!
Archive for the ‘Safety’ Category
Family First Aid Kit!
Mostly Inclusive First Aid Kit!
We wrote previously about preparing a first-aid kit for outdoor activities and come to the conclusion that, with exception of a few items, content really depends on the activities you’re involved in. However, I do think that you can develop a generic kit that will cover most common situations. These items should be kept in a suitable container; this might include a duffel bag, cosmetic case, rubber container with a lid, or even a fishing/tackle box.
Camping First Aid Kit:
- An assorted selection of adhesive bandages;
- At least 2 compress bandages;
- 5 small gauze pads;
- 5 large gauze pads;
- First aid tape;
- Scissors;
- 5 individual packets of antibiotic ointment or one tube;
- 5 antiseptic wipes (or travel pack of wipes);
- 2 roller (ACE) bandages of different sizes;
- 2 triangular bandages;
- 3 hydro-cortisone packets or small tube;
- Aspirin (small bottle);
- An oral thermometer that contains no mercury or glass;
- Tweezers;
- 2 pair of medical gloves, preferably latex free;
- An instant cold compress;
- An emergency blanket or space blanket.
This kit does not include needed supplies such as insect repellent, burn spray, eye wash; or medication that covers upset stomachs, headaches and coughs/colds, etc. Most important to this First Aid Kit is that there is someone available who has knowledge of basic first aid procedures. Be Safe!
Ammo Size Does Matter!
Choose the Proper Weapon!
It goes without saying that hunting products can make or break the hunt. The rifle is the most common type weapon used for hunting; it gives you the long range that’s normally desired. Optional weapons include shotguns, handguns and bows; but, still, the weapon of choice is a long gun (rifle). However, it is super critical that the choice of weapon you use has the capability of killing the game you’re hunting.
Gun sizes are measured in caliber, which is expressed either in inches or millimeters and indicates the diameter of the bullet. The bigger the gun/ammo; the more power it carries, but the length of the barrel will determine its range. As an example
- Small Game – .22 caliber (long rifle (5.56 mm)), used for small animals such as rabbits or birds.
- Multipurpose – .30 caliber, such as a 30-06 (7.62mm), used to hunt everything from a varmint to bigger game (deer, elk)
- Medium to Large Game – The .35, .357, or .38 caliber rounds are more commonly found in hand guns. There are a few long guns in this size; most common is a .35 caliber. It fires a round equivalent to a 9mm.
- Very Large Game – These large Ammunition rounds include .44, .45 caliber and up. They’re commonly found in handguns but also some long guns and are used to bring down bear, wildcats or moose.
Dumb Things!
No consolation in not knowing it was loaded!
We continue to do dumb things. I read in the paper yesterday where someone got shot with an unloaded weapon. WOW! – that’s quite a feat. I would rather think that someone failed to do something that they should have done. I know accidents are going to happen, but what bothers me are those same accidents seem to happen over/over/over again. Yes, the same ones that are totally avoidable.
Obviously, the gun was loaded. The same person that loaded it failed to unload it. I’ve got a suggestion, why don’t we change the mind-set and automatically assume that all guns are loaded until properly checked/cleared. This action alone would save hundreds of lives each year. As the saying goes, “Stupid is what Stupid does”! Other common sense precautions/considerations that might preclude a future gun accident would include:
- All rifles, pistols, guns and ammo should be under a controlled lock/key system. This is extremely important if children are involved;
- All firearms should be properly checked and unloaded when not in use;
- Never use a firearm for any purpose except that for which it is intended (not a cane, crutch, nor club);
- Never shoot a weapon at an object unless there is a background that will stop the bullet within your sighting range;
- Never point a weapon at something you have not positively identified and/or wish to shoot.
Outdoor Protection!
Even with "Camo"!
Gun Cases are important to all gun owners. A good quality case will allow you to transport your guns without fretting their safety. There are a number of different type gun cases made from a variety of materials including plastic, leather, aluminum and others that in-part combine these materials as-well-as other components.
However, the main aim for most gun cases is to be rugged and provide maximum protection for its content. Your consideration should include:
- Get a case that fits your gun. It should not be too loose but considered a firm fit.
- If you travel with your guns, you might give thought to cases that disguise their content.
- I would recommend a hard gun case with locks for gun owners who are also parents of young children.
Be Aware!
Be Ready!
Are you going boating/canoeing/rafting or even just plain floating – if so, there are things that you must have access to for safety purposes and other stuff considered nice to have but still things that will help make the experience fun and hassle free.
Must Have:
Personal Flotation Vest (each boat occupant) – Must have a device designated for each adult but children must wear. Make sure they fit;
First Aid Kit – As a minimum, it should include cleansing wipes, antibiotic ointment, sterile dressings, and adhesive bandages;
Sun Protection – Wear even on an overcast day. Supplement with sunglasses, wide brim hat and high SPF waterproof sunscreen.
Clothes on your Back – Depends on the activity – swim suit should be the foundation for in-water possibilities. Out of water clothing should be light and breathable. Shoes/sandals must be secure on the feet;
Insect Repellent – Nothing will destroy an outing quicker than over zealous mosquitoes and not having proper insect repellent.
Nice to Have:
Food and Beverages – Most trips are at-least a day in length. Why rough it when you don’t have to.
Towels and Picnic Blankets – Some of the most memorable moments can be when you’re on the beach, under a shade tree and telling stories about things that never happened;
Camera – You got to have it for posterity;
Toilet Paper – Only appreciated when you don’t have it!.
Safety On Floating Ice!
Is it safe to walk/drive on?
This year, one of the biggest concerns here in the North Country is the lack of moisture and cold weather. It has definitely cut into skiing, snow-boarding, ice fishing, and snowmobile/ATV riding.
Normally. This is the time of year when you can get out on the lake with just about anything without fear of falling through the ice. However, this year that’s not the case as is verified by depiction of a tragic accident almost every day in the daily news. I do remind everyone that safety is an individual responsibility.
One of the best resources that covers the common-sense, precautionary measures a person should follow when on a fresh water ice cover can be found at the following: LINK (US Army Engineering). This resource stipulates that there are four things that a person must focus on when planning an outing on the ice, your: physical condition, clothing, equipment, and procedures.
White Water Rapids Classification!
White Water Rapids!
White-water rapids are classified by an internal grading system in six different ways. A Class One (I) white-water is the easiest to navigate; a Class VI (six) is the most difficult and virtually impossible to navigate. The following is a general guide to the six classifications for White-water Rapids:
- Class I – Water is smooth flowing with an absence of rapids;
- Class II – Water is slightly rough, though line is easy to pursue and see;
- Class III – Considered white-water but larger rafts can safely navigate. Canoeists and kayakers on these waters should possess self-rescuing and rolling skills;
- Class IV – Only for experienced kayakers, getting through might require the kayaker to maneuver through it very quickly;
- Class V – Advanced kayakers only, rapid scouting might be inevitable, hidden hazards possible, which will create the need for precise and experienced maneuvers;
- Class VI - Exploratory or impassible, safety precautions are a must and only experts in teams should attempt.
The classification of white-waters changes constantly based on weather and environmental conditions. It is important that navigators have the latest water update, as- well-as the needed sporting skill proficiency and required safety equipment/devices before attempting navigation, Be Safe!
Dress In Layers!
Be Warm!
Dressing in layers during cold-weather is a proven way to ensure comfort during the coldest of weather conditions. What’s beautiful about this simple concept: it allows you to make quick adjustments based on present body heat and increased/decreased physical activity.
- Basic Layer – This is the comfort layer, closest to the skin. It should be made of a non-absorbing synthetic fabric or Merino Wool. Thermal underwear is ideal and can be selected in different weights (heavy, medium, light) based on weather conditions and anticipated activities.
- Middle Layer – This is the insulation layer that provides warmth and must trap/retain body heat close to the body. It should be made of moisture wicking fibers to help keep you dry. This could include a polyester vest, jacket, and/or tights. Goose down products are good but must be kept dry to maintain their insulating ability.
- Outer Layer - This outer shell protects you from the wind, rain and/or snow. Ideally, it should be waterproof but breathable; this version is a little more expensive than the non-waterproof/breathable options but well worth it. It will provide the desired comfort in any type of weather. Fit is important, so consider all other cold-weather clothing to be worn.
Flash Flooding!
"WHOA"!
In several of my last few blog posts, I mentioned precautions that could/should be taken during certain adverse weather conditions. However, I would be remiss if I did not mention those for flash/river flooding. It has become the biggest weather related killer across the U.S., causing about 50 deaths annually. To help prevent becoming a Flash Flood statistic, the following safety considerations/precautions should be exercised:
- Do not camp near small streams. Rain upstream can cause a flash flood. Camp on higher ground.
- Pay attention to signs warning of areas prone to flash floods.
- Do not try to cross a flowing stream on foot if water is above your knees.
- It only takes two feet of water to make a car float. If your car does stall, abandon it immediately and move to higher ground.
- Be very cautious at night when it’s hard to see flood dangers.
- Never try to cross rushing water. If you must cross standing water, be sure you know that the water is below your floorboards. Drive slowly so-as not to make waves.
As stated by someone, common sense and good emergency gear/equipment will prevail.
Tornado Safety Precautions!
Safety Precautions!
The United States averages about 1,200 tornadoes a year; however, this year we have had over 1,817 twisters, with at least 566 deaths reported thus far. You would think that we would learn from past mistakes; but , reports indicate that there continues to be a general complacency and lack of knowledge as to the precautions that could/should be taken.
In a House or Apartment:
- Go to basement if available. Seek shelter under sturdy furniture, a work bench or a stairwell. Cover your head or keep a helmet handy.
- In homes without basements, take cover in the center of the house. Go to a small room without windows, closet, hallway on the lowest level or hide under heavy furniture against a strong, inside wall. Put as many walls as possible between you and the storm.
- Keeps windows closed, and draw the blinds/shades over the windows to reduce glass damage.
In a Mobile Home:
- Evacuate your mobile home and seek shelter in a building (45% of people killed were in mobile homes when the twister(s) hit).
- If necessary, find a low spot such as a ditch or ravine.
A prudent person would have a family rehearsed plan. This would include a pre-packed emergency/survival kit that would be readily available.
Most Commented