As summer approaches the trails and backcountry of Ventura County will become a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. While the backcountry is a beautiful place, it can also become dangerous to those who are not properly prepared for their adventure.
The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind all visitors to the backcountry that there are several steps they can take to help make the trip a safer outing. All hikers and campers should know limitations related to their own abilities, where they are going, and how long it might take to get to there.
Commonly referred to as the “10 Essentials,” every hiker or camper should have at minimum a form of navigation, sun protection, hydration, illumination, shelter, insulation, first aid, tools, nutrition, and fire. Having these minimum essentials with you could save a life.
To assist hikers with pre-trip planning, the Sheriff’s Office is providing a “Hiking Plan” document that can be completed prior to any backcountry adventure. Some of topics contained in the hiking plan include name(s), your starting point, your vehicle description, destination, equipment list, length of trip, and emergency contact information.
Once completed, the hiking plan can be given to a family member or friend prior to departing on your trip. In case of emergency, the hiking plan is a useful tool for Search and Rescue members to assist them in locating injured or lost subjects.
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For more information on this subject visit https://www.venturasheriff.org/join-our-team/volunteers/search-rescue/. A PDF link to the hiking plan and a list of the 10 essentials can be found here.
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