Posted by admin | Posted in Clothing | Posted on 30-09-2009
Tags: gear, hiking, outdoor, poles, walking
Hiking Poles Walking
Avoiding Snakes When Hiking
Many individuals when encouraged to go hiking express a fear of snakes and this fear keeps them from experiencing the beauty of our natural world. The fear of snakes is an exaggerated concern and by following some simple rules most persons will never have any threatening experiences with snakes.
When hiking, you should not go barefooted or in sandals but wear Hiking Boots or heavy walking shoes, along with long pants of a heavy material such as denim. These provide foot protection against bites from snakes and also protect against insect bites, scorpion stings and cuts from sharp stones. Coral snakes for example have small fangs that are usually unable to penetrate the fabric of a boot.
When walking through heavy brush or tall grass look down, look where you are walking. Very often poisonous snakes are lying on the forest floor among the leaf litter and so by looking down you will be able to see them and avoid accidentally stepping on or next to them. The beauty of our natural world often captivates us and so there is a tendency to look at the scenery as we walk. When hiking it is better to stop and look around to admire the beauty of nature, rather than walk and gaze around. One should always look at the trail while walking.
Fallen trees or logs across the trail are a common occurrence when hiking in the forest. Most persons simply step across the fallen tree, however depending upon the size of the log it may not be possible to immediately see on the other side of the log when you are approaching the log. It should be remembered that snakes often lie below fallen logs. The more appropriate method is to step on the log, look to see if there is a snake lying on the other side and then step down.
Depending upon how strenuous the hike is, there will be intervals when you stop to rest. The natural inclination for most persons on a rest break is to sit and fallen trees are an inviting location for resting weary bodies. Do not sit down without first checking the area and especially do not lean on fallen trees or rocks without first checking them well.
Snakes and scorpions often lie in hollow logs or in rock crevices therefore you should avoid thrusting your hands into dark places such as hollow logs, under logs or rock crevices without first thoroughly investigating the place. Similarly before you place your hand to pick up an object from a place that may be a resting place for a snake, such as under bushes, among leaves, rocks or logs, you should check the area first. It is a good idea to hike with a long stick that can be used to probe among rocks and under logs.
If your hiking trip involves overnight camping you should not leave your boots outside of your tent at night because snakes may crawl into them to escape from the cold. Alternatively you can place two poles in the ground and hang the boots upside down on the poles. Before putting on your boots you should turn the boots upside down and shake them to ensure that no snakes or scorpions have crawled into the boots.
Never attempt to pick up a snake unless you are an expert. Even freshly killed snakes can still bite as their nervous system may be still active and so their head may do a reflex bite.
If in the unfortunate circumstance an individual is bitten by a snake you should always treat the situation as if the bite is from a poisonous snake because the individual who was bitten may not have seen the snake or be able to identify the type of snake. Usually with bites from a viper there is pain and swelling around the area of the bite, however in the case of the coral snake often there is very little reaction around the bite area and symptoms may not appear for 8 to 24 hours.
The individual who was bitten should be made to lie down and kept still. The objective is to lower the pulse rate and so slow the spread of the venom. Ice should be placed on the bitten area if possible. The individual should then be transported to the nearest source of medical attention. You should never attempt to suck the poison out of the area as you may poison yourself.
By following these simple rules most individuals will never have to worry about being bitten by a poisonous snake.
About the Author
About the Author
Brian Ramsey operates the web site, Outdoors Trinidad, www.trinoutdoors.com and is the author of the CD, Discovering the Birds of Trinidad and Tobago, www.birdsoftt.com.
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Trail Back Hiking Poles $79.9 The Trail Back Hiking Poles by Black Diamond are one of the more minimalist poles that BD makes, while still offering plenty of features to make your time in the backcountry more enjoyable. Equipped with a four season, glove friendly FlickLock that allows you to easily extend or retract your poles with precision and on the fly, while the Long Flex Tip gives you the ability to create stability no matter what type of terrain you are encountering. |
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New Balance Walking Poles $29.99 Get in shape with these walking poles that feature an antishock interior and ergonomic grips for comfortable use while you exercise. The carbide tungsten tips provide a durable design. |
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54 Sassafras Whistle Adult Hiking and Walking Stick $33.95 A shrill whistle is carved into the top of the Sassafras Whistle Stick.Profile: We are one of the largest suppliers of hiking and walking sticks in the U.S., and we have been in the stick business since 1985. Best selling of all of our sticks is the rustic Hickory hiking stick, famous for its strength and durability. Whistle Creek makes sticks "like grandpa would have made." These are products that you would be proud to display in your home, yet not hesitate to use on the trail every day. We have avoided going to aluminum poles (lightning rods) or other mass-manufactured techniques. We have stayed with time-tested traditional methods that have been around since before Moses. Each Whistle Creek product is hand crafted from wood in the U.S. by skilled craftsmen who value the importance of a sturdy "friend" on the trail. Whether you use your stick for arduous mountain treks, strolls in the forest or just for "wandering 'round the block," you will soon benefit from the comfort and security that a good walking stick can bring to your outings. Hopefully you will decide to collect all of our sticks for you and your family to use for generations. What Size Stick is for Me? Hiking sticks should be 6" to 9" above your elbow to help you get down a hill (you need to reach). Walking sticks and canes are different. First, place your arm to your side with the elbow slightly bent. The top of the handle on the stick should be at the break in your wrist. All of Whistle Creek's sticks can be shortened by removing the rubber tip, sawing off what is not needed and then replacing the tip. Orthopedic patients should consult their physician. |
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Walking Stick $58.94 High Quality Content by WIKIPEDIA articles A walking stick is a device used by many people to facilitate balancing whilst walking.Walking sticks come in many shapes and sizes, and can be sought by collectors. Some kinds of walking stick may be used by people with disabilities as a crutch. The walking stick has also historically been known to be used as a defensive or offensive weapon, and may conceal a knife or sword as in a swordstick.Walking sticks, also under the monikers of trekking poles, pilgrims staffs, hiking poles or hiking sticks, are used by hikers for a wide variety of purposes: to clear spiderwebs, part thick bushes or grass obscuring the trail; as a support when going uphill or a brake when going downhill; as a balance point when crossing streams, swamps or other rough terrain; to feel for obstacles in the path; to test mud and puddles for depth; and as a defence against wild animals. A walking stick can be improvised from nearby felled wood. More ornate sticks are made for avid hikers, and are often adorned with small trinkets or medallions depicting conquered territory. Author: Surhone, Lambert M./ Tennoe, Mariam T./ Henssonow, Susan F. Binding Type: Paperback Number of Pages: 68 Publication Date: 2010/08/22 Language: English Dimensions: 6.00 x 9.02 x 0.16 inches |
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Leki Carbonlite Aergon Speedlock Trekking Poles $179.95 LEKI, the world's leading manufacturer of ski, hiking and trekking poles had its start in Kircheim, Germany as a hobby of its founder, Karl Lenhart, an airframe mechanic and avid skier. Lenhart believed aluminum would make a superior ski pole compared to the heavy steel models available in the late 1940's. After successfully creating light- weight poles for his friends, in 1954, the hobby became a full time business. Stupid light, these trekking poles were made to cover long distances while providing the most support possible. Carbonlite construction replaces traditional aluminum for a lighter and stronger pole, while SpeedLock fasteners made for quick and rock solid adjustments. Other hikers will look like they're walking with crutches when you blast by them with these solid poles.Features:AERGON GripSpeedLock Locking SystemInterchangeable Basket SystemCarbide FlextipWeight: 14.6 oz/pair, Length: 67-135 cm |
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Hiking $78.07 Hiking is an outdoor activity which consists of walking in natural environments, often on hiking trails. It is such a popular activity that there are numerous hiking organizations worldwide. The health benefits of different types of hiking have been confirmed in studies. The word hiking is understood in all Englishspeaking countries, but there are differences in usage. In the United States and United Kingdom, hiking refers to crosscountry walking of a longer duration than a simple walk and usually over terrain where hiking boots are required. A day hike refers to a hike that can be completed in a single day, often applied to mountain hikes to a lake or summit, but not requiring an overnight camp, in which case the term backpacking is used. Bushwhacking specifically refers to difficult walking through dense forest, undergrowth, or bushes, where forward progress requires pushing vegetation aside. Author: Miller, Frederic P./ Vandome, Agnes F./ McBrewster, John Binding Type: Paperback Number of Pages: 78 Publication Date: 2009/12/30 Language: English Dimensions: 5.98 x 9.01 x 0.18 inches |
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Poles $12.49 Poles |
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The Caribbean: A Walking & Hiking Guide $9.99 “Amblers, hikers, beachcombers, power walkers, and anyone who likes to experience the Caribbean with their feet: this book’s for you.” Caribbean Travel & Life. “Writing as though he is offering advice to old friends, Adkins has unveiled the splendors of foot exploration on the islands.” Backpacker magazine. "Keep this if you already own it; or try to purchase the guide wherever you can find it." Library Journal. This new edition has been fully updated to bring you the very latest information on hiking trails on Anguilla, Antigua, Dominica, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Nevis, Saba, Statia and the Virgin Islands. From easy walks along sandy beaches to rugged overnight hikes to quick uphill treks with stunning vistas en route, this pocket-size guide has something to suit every member of your family. Walking times for each hike are given, along with descriptions of the route. Points of interest are highlighted, including plant and animal life you might see. An introduction to each island offers tidbits of the island's history, tourist information offices, air travel details and hiking organizations you can contact ahead of time. Maps throughout of all islands.This unique guidebook covers every aspect of exploring these islands on foot. And conditions have never been better for Caribbean-bound walkers and hikers. The tiny island of Saba has rebuilt the hand-carved step-trails that were once the only link between the island’s four villages. Dominica has upgraded a network of trails through rugged mountains into areas with active volcanoes and cascading waterfalls. Excursions range from one-hour town and beach walks to strenuous hikes that require the services of a local guide. So, whether you prefer to take in the historical sites, marketplaces and Dutch buildings in Philipsburg or would rather work up a sweat on the Victor Hugues Trail (8 hours, one way) on Guadeloupe, you’ll find something to suit your tastes. |
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48 Tracker Series™ Sassafras Scout Hiking and Walking Stick with Paw Print Leather Strap $24.96 Foxes, Bears and Cougars oh my! These Tracker Series staffs with paw-print straps will educate and entertain. Choose from the North America Paw-Print Strap (fox, bear, deer, raccoon, elk, coyote, and cougar); or the Alaska Paw-Print Strap (grizzly, moose, wolf, caribou, American bald eagle and polar bear).Profile: We are one of the largest suppliers of hiking and walking sticks in the U.S., and we have been in the stick business since 1985. Best selling of all of our sticks is the rustic Hickory hiking stick, famous for its strength and durability. Whistle Creek makes sticks "like grandpa would have made." These are products that you would be proud to display in your home, yet not hesitate to use on the trail every day. We have avoided going to aluminum poles (lightning rods) or other mass-manufactured techniques. We have stayed with time-tested traditional methods that have been around since before Moses. Each Whistle Creek product is hand crafted from wood in the U.S. by skilled craftsmen who value the importance of a sturdy "friend" on the trail. Whether you use your stick for arduous mountain treks, strolls in the forest or just for "wandering 'round the block," you will soon benefit from the comfort and security that a good walking stick can bring to your outings. Hopefully you will decide to collect all of our sticks for you and your family to use for generations. What Size Stick is for Me? Hiking sticks should be 6" to 9" above your elbow to help you get down a hill (you need to reach). Walking sticks and canes are different. First, place your arm to your side with the elbow slightly bent. The top of the handle on the stick should be at the break in your wrist. All of Whistle Creek's sticks can be shortened by removing the rubber tip, sawing off what is not needed and then replacing the tip. Orthopedic patients should consult their physician. |
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54 Tracker Series™ Hickory Adult Hiking and Walking Stick with Paw Print Leather Strap $26.96 Foxes, Bears and Cougars oh my! These Tracker Series staffs with paw-print straps will educate and entertain. Choose from the North America Paw-Print Strap (fox, bear, deer, raccoon, elk, coyote, and cougar); or the Alaska Paw-Print Strap (grizzly, moose, wolf, caribou, American bald eagle and polar bear).Profile: We are one of the largest suppliers of hiking and walking sticks in the U.S., and we have been in the stick business since 1985. Best selling of all of our sticks is the rustic Hickory hiking stick, famous for its strength and durability. Whistle Creek makes sticks "like grandpa would have made." These are products that you would be proud to display in your home, yet not hesitate to use on the trail every day. We have avoided going to aluminum poles (lightning rods) or other mass-manufactured techniques. We have stayed with time-tested traditional methods that have been around since before Moses. Each Whistle Creek product is hand crafted from wood in the U.S. by skilled craftsmen who value the importance of a sturdy "friend" on the trail. Whether you use your stick for arduous mountain treks, strolls in the forest or just for "wandering 'round the block," you will soon benefit from the comfort and security that a good walking stick can bring to your outings. Hopefully you will decide to collect all of our sticks for you and your family to use for generations. What Size Stick is for Me? Hiking sticks should be 6" to 9" above your elbow to help you get down a hill (you need to reach). Walking sticks and canes are different. First, place your arm to your side with the elbow slightly bent. The top of the handle on the stick should be at the break in your wrist. All of Whistle Creek's sticks can be shortened by removing the rubber tip, sawing off what is not needed and then replacing the tip. Orthopedic patients should consult their physician. |
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54 Tracker Series™ Sassafras Adult Hiking and Walking Stick with Paw Print Leather Strap $26.96 Foxes, Bears and Cougars oh my! These Tracker Series staffs with paw-print straps will educate and entertain. Choose from the North America Paw-Print Strap (fox, bear, deer, raccoon, elk, coyote, and cougar); or the Alaska Paw-Print Strap (grizzly, moose, wolf, caribou, American bald eagle and polar bear).Profile: We are one of the largest suppliers of hiking and walking sticks in the U.S., and we have been in the stick business since 1985. Best selling of all of our sticks is the rustic Hickory hiking stick, famous for its strength and durability. Whistle Creek makes sticks "like grandpa would have made." These are products that you would be proud to display in your home, yet not hesitate to use on the trail every day. We have avoided going to aluminum poles (lightning rods) or other mass-manufactured techniques. We have stayed with time-tested traditional methods that have been around since before Moses. Each Whistle Creek product is hand crafted from wood in the U.S. by skilled craftsmen who value the importance of a sturdy "friend" on the trail. Whether you use your stick for arduous mountain treks, strolls in the forest or just for "wandering 'round the block," you will soon benefit from the comfort and security that a good walking stick can bring to your outings. Hopefully you will decide to collect all of our sticks for you and your family to use for generations. What Size Stick is for Me? Hiking sticks should be 6" to 9" above your elbow to help you get down a hill (you need to reach). Walking sticks and canes are different. First, place your arm to your side with the elbow slightly bent. The top of the handle on the stick should be at the break in your wrist. All of Whistle Creek's sticks can be shortened by removing the rubber tip, sawing off what is not needed and then replacing the tip. Orthopedic patients should consult their physician. |
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Leki Trail Trekking Poles $62.9 LEKI is the world’s leading manufacturer of Skiing, Trekking and Nordic Walking poles. For over 60 years, outdoor enthusiasts have appreciated the quality, value and technology that goes into each and every one of their products. |
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Swagman Vegabond Trekking Poles $47.78 Stay stable and upright on those snowshoeing trips with Might Trekking PolesSnow gear comes with internal shock absorbing systemSnowshoe equipment has three section micro adjustable telescopingPoles extend from 28 to 55 inches long Features ergonomic handle and adjustable wrist bandPoles can be used for both hiking and snowshoeing |
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Regatta Anti-Shock Walking Poles. $27.99 Lightweight aluminium tubing.Silver.Telescopic height adjustment.Moulded rubber grip handle.Adjustable wrist support.Anti shock absorber.Size H66, D1.8cm.EAN/MPN/UPC/ISBN: 5051513851929. |
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Trail Ergo Trekking Poles $99.9 The Trail Ergo Trekking Poles by Black Diamond are super stablizing hiking poles with ergonomic cork handles that keep your hands in the right place so you can put your pole where you want it... on the ground anyway. 3 section poles have a FlickLock adjustability that can be done on the fly with absolute security and no moving, and the FlickLocks can be used with heavy gloves on as well. The natural cork and dual density rubber top fits your hands and over time actually absorbs sweat. The 15 degree corrective angle keeps your wrists in a neutral position for comfort and performance. |
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Leki Corklite AERGON SpeedLock Poles $99.9 LEKI is the world’s leading manufacturer of Skiing, Trekking and Nordic Walking poles. For over 60 years, outdoor enthusiasts have appreciated the quality, value and technology that goes into each and every one of their products. |
POLES For Balance & Mobility