Hiking Safety

Backpacking and hiking is quickly becoming a popular trend across America. It is both challenging and adventurous. And it appeals to young and old, male and female. It is something virtually anyone can take part in, and there are countless options on how and where to start. Backpacking is a great way to get into shape and have fun at the same time. Whether you are going for a week or for a night, you will have a more relaxed and enjoy your camping vacation if you are well organized and prepared.

If you're a seasoned camper you are probably well aware of the equipment required for your trip, however, few hikers think of self defense as a concern. Kidnapping, abductions, rapes, and violent assaults are common in nationwide media coverage and remind us of the credible threat and need for self defense products in the backcountry.

As you are packing, check your camping equipment and make sure that everything is in good order and you have included some personal defense products such as a defense spray, taser, or a stun gun.

Defense spray also referred to as OC or pepper spray is a very effective inflammatory agent that can easily irritate the eyes and result in pain, temporary blindness, and tears of any potential threat you may encounter either human or animal. Pepper spray is an organic based agent that comes from cayenne peppers. The spray will normally come in canister form, which his often times small enough to be carried in your pocket while hiking to your campsite.

Taser International recently released the latest personal defense device for the general public, the Taser C2. The Taser C2 was specifically designed for the general public to truly feel safe in today's troubled times. TASER products are giving people the power they need to take control and protect themselves. The TASER C2 utilizes the same technology used in TASER International's law enforcement models to effectively stun an assailant up to fifteen feet away.

For all outdoor enthusiasts, safety should be the first consideration and it must be in front of the mind at all times. There can be several hazards in backpacking and a person who does not think about being safe could fall prey. Territorial wildlife is a commonly encountered threat when in the wilderness. Having the ability to think clearly, remain calm, and having a personal defense weapon readily available will decrease the chances of becoming a victim of an attack.

Another consideration in personal safety while in the backcountry is being aware of other people. Popular hiking trails and wilderness areas have been grounds for violent attacks and kidnappings in the past.

As an example in 1974, hikers discovered a grave yard of bones in a Washington forest, later identified as belonging to missing women from both Washington and Utah. Investigators from both states communicated together and came up with a profile and composite sketch of the man named "Ted" who approached women for help, sometimes appearing helpless with a cast on his arm or crutches. This man was later identified as the notorious Ted Bundy.

People backpack for different reasons. Some do it for the great exercise, some because of the adventure and love of nature. Others backpack as a way to learn and explore the outdoors. Whatever the reason, there are large and expanding numbers of backpackers. They explore and they love the wilderness, and have the common goal of a safe backpacking experience which can provide memories that last a lifetime.