Summer is the perfect season for adventure, with hikes, picnics and boating included on many warm-weather to-do lists. Local experts were asked to share their safety tips for journeying out into the wild:
By Morgan Cartier Weston | Illustration by Kristen Solecki
Be Prepared
“Outdoor adventures can be fun,” says Chatham County Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources’ Parks Manager, Erin Metzger. “However, there are some risks associated with them. By adhering to some safety tips, you can ensure that your outdoor recreation adventure is safe and successful.” Check the local weather forecast before heading outside, and dress accordingly. Summer conditions can change quickly, so pack light layers, sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Tell someone where you’re going, and have a backup plan in case the weather turns. Always carry more water than you think you’ll need, especially during physical activities like hiking or biking. Keeping hydrated, as well as carrying a small snack and basic first-aid supplies can help you respond to fatigue or minor injuries on the go.
Hydration Is Key
“Engaging in physical activity during the warm-weather season can easily lead to dehydration,” Erin says. Early symptoms include extreme thirst, dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness and fatigue. Stay hydrated by pre-hydrating before long hikes or outdoor workouts, and drink water throughout the day. Wear sunscreen to prevent sunburns, which can advance dehydration, and be sure to replace lost electrolytes if you’re sweating heavily. This is just as important for your four-legged companions. Dogs cool off by panting and through their paw pads and can easily become overheated. “Make sure you give your canine buddy frequent drinks of water and breaks in the shade,” Erin says. Pet owners should also avoid walking on hot pavement, which can burn pups’ paws.
Respect Wildlife
Seeing animals in their natural habitat is one of the joys of outdoor recreation, but it’s important to respect their space. Carrying binoculars is a great way to enjoy wildlife from a safe distance. Do not feed, approach or try to touch wildlife. “Human interaction can cause stress and may interfere with animals’ natural behaviors, including hunting or foraging,” Erin says. North Carolina is home to 37 species of snakes, but only six are venomous: copperheads, cottonmouths, Eastern diamondback rattlesnakes, timber rattlesnakes, Carolina pygmy rattlesnakes and Eastern coral snakes. “Snakes are extremely beneficial to the environment,” Erin says. “They feed heavily on rats, mice and insects.” Most snakes prefer to avoid people and will not strike unless threatened, so if you see one, observe it from a safe distance and move on.
Water Safety
Jordan Lake is a popular destination during the summer months, and safety on the water is just as important as on land. Boaters should always wear a life jacket and carry required safety gear; in North Carolina, that means a personal flotation device, a fire extinguisher and a noisemaker, such as a horn, whistle or bell. Learn to use the engine cutoff switch; even better, take a boating safety class. “We have life jacket loaner stations around the lake,” says Elaine Wittry, a natural resources specialist with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The stations—nine in total across seven recreation areas and boat ramps—are stocked with an array of sizes, from infant, child and youth to adult sizes. They are free and available for anyone to borrow and put them back at the end of the day. “We’d like folks to be safe out on the water,” Elaine says. Stay informed by checking marine weather forecasts, especially if heading to larger lakes or rivers. Avoid alcohol while operating a boat, and always be courteous to other boaters and swimmers. When it comes to swimming, Elaine says it is most important to understand your own limitations. “One thing people don’t think about is lakes are natural bodies of water,” she says. “It’s different from swimming in a pool. There are no lifeguards, the water is murky, the ground is uneven, with big, sudden drops where it gets really deep.” Elaine adds that weather and currents can add to the danger. “Be aware of your own limitations and of the conditions you’re swimming in,” she advises.
Know Your Trail Etiquette
Chatham County’s natural areas rely on responsible visitors to remain beautiful and accessible for all. Follow Leave No Trace principles by staying on designated trails, packing out trash and leaving natural objects, like rocks and flowers, where they are. If you see litter, pick it up. “If you see vandalism or behavior that could harm the environment, and it’s safe to do so, speak up or report it to park staff,” Erin says. Encourage others—especially children—to become stewards of the land. Proper trail etiquette includes yielding appropriately to hikers, bikers and horseback riders and keeping pets leashed. Avoid loud music or disruptive behavior, and give fellow visitors space on trails and at overlooks. If you’re traveling in a large group, make sure the pace and route are suitable for everyone. Check in with each member before and during the trip to ensure they’re comfortable and safe. Assign roles—such as navigator, medic or gear carrier—to share responsibilities and lighten the load.
Get Involved
“Outdoor spaces thrive when people care for them,” Erin says. Support your favorite parks and public lands by volunteering with organizations like the Haw River Assembly or simply staying informed about policies that affect access and conservation. Chatham County staff send out a quarterly conservation newsletter; to be added, email Debbie Roos at dlroos@ncsu.edu.
