Winter, another word that starts with 'W', often makes some people head for the hibernation cave, and keep as cozy as possible. For others, the snow is the seasonal splash park full of fun! Whether you wear the goose down, or snuggle in it, there comes a time for everyone to put it away, and look forward to the next season.
An article in a recent PaddleNews brought to mind the need for reviewing ones supplies for outdoor excursions. On a hike on a cold afternoon, the writer went for her matches to make a hot cup of tea, only to find not one of them would light. Then, to add insult to injury, the lighter didn't light either, perhaps because it was too cold. Another example was the searcher who was checking on his mylar emergency blanket. He found it welded together from the heat of recent outings.
Make your 'Go' bag your friend, (instead of finding it 'gone') and check its resources for the following:
Fire lighting: matches good? lighter lights? Alternate fuel types: You may want to consider keeping a flint (and lint) and practice using it before you need it.
Emergency blankets: check the package to see that it's 'fluffy' not flat.
Other items such as dates on medicine packs; check first aid supplies for intact packaging, content, and dates if present.
Re-Supply: anything that was used and removed or shifted to another bag. Take a good look at food items for wholesomeness. Soon, it will be time to wander again, whatever the season; checking your 'go' bag will serve you well.
Whether hiking, boating, biking, whatever your day excursions, there are ten essentials to consider bringing along. Do you have your list? Next week: a review of ten essentials for a day's outing.
