You may have seen this week's article about the hiker who survived after being lost for ten days in Big Basin Redwood State Park in California. During a hike that should have taken three hours, the hiker stated that he became disoriented because the trail area was damaged due to a previous wildfire. With very little on his person (a multi-tool and a flashlight) the hiker said that he foraged for wild berries and drank a gallon of water each day. How did he get this water? Well, he took it from waterfalls and drank it from his boot. This means that he went on a hike, through canyons, in the heat of June, with NO water bottle or canteen. Also, with no rain gear or jacket, he slept on wet leaves at night. It is fortunate that he was spotted by a drone and subsequently found by rescuers.
We practice hiking with our Ten Essentials: Pocket knife, First Aid kit, extra clothing, rain gear, water storage, flashlight/headlamp, trail food, matches/fire starter, sun protection, and map and compass. Imagine what a difference these items would have made for this lost hiker. Yet, we sometimes see those among us that either forget to bring a day bag to carry Ten Essentials or choose to forgo the bag and opt to strike out with just a water bottle. Note that we are going to summer camp this week, and you will see some walking back and forth to classes and areas with no water bottle at all.
Ten Essentials are just that. They provide capability during contingencies and emergencies. Be Prepared!