Randy and Sheri Propster of Backpacker Magazine made a presentation at Mast General Store in Greenville, SC this past Sunday afternoon. They are on a national tour and their theme is “Get Out More”.

They are promoting the healthy benefits of backpacking, hiking, trail running and camping. Their base camp while in the Greenville area was a campground near Lake Keowee. The afternoon prior to the presentation, they arrived late at the campground and didn’t batten down the ties well on their tent. About 5:00 am, a storm with heavy wind and rain blew water into their tent and they had to scramble to soak up the water and restore order. This just proves that even the experts can be caught off guard at times.

The presentation was very informative and stressed safety, the importance of good gear and preparation for outdoor adventures. Randy spoke about safety and reviewed the “Rule of Threes”. This rule state that a person can live for three minutes without air, three hours without shelter from severe elements, three days without water and three weeks without food. These are generalizations, because of the difference in levels of health and endurance of individuals, but are good to remember.

Other facts about outdoor safety revealed that falls are the number one cause of wilderness fatalities. Drowning is number two. Most of the attendees guessed that hypothermia was number one, but it was well down the list. Hypothermia is a risk however and can be a factor even when the temperature seems moderate. Wearing layers of garments that wick moisture away from the body is the best way to avoid hypothermia. Cotton retains moisture against the skin and is not a good fiber for outdoor apparel. Most wilderness rescues are required because of broken bones, sprains, or knee injuries.

Randy and Sheri are well qualified to speak about backpacking. Among their accomplishments is a coast-to-coast backpacking trip from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. They spent 253 nights in a tent on that trip, crossed thirteen states and wore out 18 pairs of shoes. They have “through-hiked” the Appalachian Trail. They spent 153 nights in a tent last year.

Preparation and good equipment choices should include:

Itinerary — Leave a plan with a relative or friend with a return date and time.

First Aid — Must match size of group.

Map and compass (GPS is good, but can fail if batteries die)

Hydration essentials — Water, bottles, filtration gear, means to boil water, etc.

Food — Pack extra as a precaution. Freeze dried food is light and compact.

Fire — Means to start a fire, cook food, etc.

Shelter and insulation — Tent, sleeping bag, or extra apparel.

Communication — Whistle, light that will strobe and signal mirror.

Tools — Essential tools for repairs and maintenance of equipment.

Equipment has improved tremendously over the last several years that will add to the comfort of your trip. Miniature solar cells, power packs, compact tents, wicking apparel, and waterproof-breathable outerwear are just a few of the improvements.

Take a tip from the professionals by planning, packing the right gear and being safe. The most important piece of equipment is to use your brain and follow good, safe practices and don’t take any unnecessary risks that could spoil your trip or those with you. If you follow their advice, you’ll have a better outdoor experience as you “Get Out More”.

n Don’t forget to tune in to WRIX radio at 103.1 on Saturday morning July 12 from 7 to 8 am. I will be visiting with Michael (Porkchop) Branch on the Morning Show. We will be taking questions and comments from listeners. Give us a call with your question or comment at (864) 224-6733.

If WRIX is out of your listening area, go online to their website and you can listen on your computer.

You can reach me for questions or comments about the column at lross3871@charter.net or (864) 238-1944.