Homestead and surrounding areas have miles of Florida nature to explore. Although Florida is known for its modern cities, it is also a very green state and you don’t have to drive far to find large expanses of wilderness. In fact, each year visitors and residents alike are attracted to camping, hiking, and other activities in the state’s parks and wilderness areas.
While the green spaces can offer great exercise and recreation, however, they come with their own dangers. Trip and fall accidents in Homestead can always be dangerous, but they can be even more deadly in the middle of nowhere with no way to call for help. Each year, hikers and campers are injured through misadventure or wild animals. Some lose their lives. If you want to explore the great outdoors, make sure you do so safely with these tips:
1) Learn the basics.
The more you know about surviving in the wild, the safer you will be in the event that you get lost or injured. Find out how to read a map and compass and take first aid classes or survivalist classes. Join an outdoor enthusiast club and learn about hiking or camping in the wilderness before you go.
2) Learn to head out into the wilderness slowly.
Do not head out for a multi-day hike far from civilization if you have always lived in the city and have no experience. Start with walks in local parks and on trails or try camping for one night in a busier campground before trying to tackle more remote areas. You will learn a great deal about staying safe before you find yourself in more dangerous surroundings.
3) Take technology with you, but don’t depend on it too much.
Many people today rely on GPS systems and cell phones. While these tools are useful, relying on them too heavily can backfire. If you find yourself lost or injured and your mobile devices are broken or lost, you may panic if those devices were your only options. Find out how to survive even without modern technology – just in case.
4) Use the buddy system.
It is safer to travel with a group, especially if you are headed into more remote areas. Wild animals are less likely to bother a group and if one of you is injured others can go for help. Whether you travel alone or with others, have check-in times with someone who is staying at home. That way, if something goes wrong there will be someone back home who knows where you are and that you need help.
5) Stay alert.
Experts agree that in wilderness settings you need to stay aware of your surroundings at all times. The presence of others or of wild animals is something you need to notice right away. Similarly, if you are walking you need to stay alert for roots, shrubs, poison ivy, rocks, and other hazards in your way. Do not listen to music or play with a mobile device while hiking or approaching a new area. Stay focused on what is around you.
If you are injured on a group tour or due to a defective product, contact Flaxman Law Group to schedule a free accident consultation. Florida law may allow you to file a legal claim and the attorneys at our law firm can discuss your situation with you to help you determine whether you have a case.