If you’ve ever held your breath as a 3-year-old runs headlong down a rooty or rocky trail, or as a 10-year-old speeds past an important trail junction, you know that safety on trail is paramount. But it is also harder when you’re hiking. One reason why kids love to hike is because there is a certain amount of freedom and risk that they don’t get at home. You want them to explore their boundaries, but not too much. The question becomes then, how do we let them explore outdoors as safely as possible without quashing their fun?
In addition to the key points in this Seattle’s Child story about the 10 essentials, Â the following are key safety rules.
Tote a well-stocked First-Aid Kit
Whether it is an easy half-mile nature loop or an overnight backpack with kids, it is always important to carry a First-Aid kit. For families, purchase a stocked kit from an outdoor store and then supplement it with items specific for kids: Bactine for cleaning wounds without the ouch; a variety of bandages for little fingers or big scrapes; children’s Tylenol; and a bug bite stick.
Set Expectations
Setting expectations with the kids before embarking on a hike is an essential safety step. Being clear and consistent at the outset gives a kid the ground rules and helps establish lifelong good trail etiquette.
Washington Trails Association surveyed parents and came up with these five rules for kids.
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Stay on the trail.
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No running and no throwing.
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Remain with the group – younger kids within eyesight; older kids within earshot.
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Always stop at a fork in the road and wait for others.
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Be courteous to other hikers by stepping aside and always ask politely to pass.
These rules are as important for a 3-year-old as for a 15-year-old. Often it is the older kid that can get into the most trouble by hiking on ahead and getting separated from the party. Some parents have tried Walkie-Talkies to good success.
Teach Your Child What to Do If They Get Lost
Let’s say that even with all of the preparation and expectations, your child gets lost. The final piece of essential gear for a kid should be a whistle. Attach it to a backpack or have them wear it like a necklace. Underscore that it is not a toy and should be used only in an emergency. Three quick blows on a whistle means “I need help” or “I am lost.” If a kid is lost, she should stay in one place and blow her whistle, counting to three between each toot. Then be quiet and listen for someone calling to them. This should be repeated every few minutes until she is found.
