June 2020 Newsletter
June 2020 Newsletter
Photo Credit – Carole Moslin
Thank you to hike leaders Carole Moslin, John Moslin, Gerry Hoye, Lisa Boutry, Doug Smith, Dianne Smith, Lori Rilkoff, Sheila Powell, Lawrence Barichello, Katherine Roberts, Sasha Lees, Sam Chow, Ian Cornish, and Paulette Gendron who led a total of 31 hikes with one cancellation due to weather in the month of June. We are grateful for all the volunteer hours and commitment they give so that we can explore new and familiar trails.
This month’s winner of the leader recognition voucher is Paulette Gendron.
Thank you to Doug Smith with all his dedication and time spent keeping our website organized and running!
Thank you to the KHC board for their time and efforts in planning and organizing safety for our members during the COVID 19 pandemic. Our thanks to their perseverance in navigating through the rules and regulations set out by the government in order to figure out how best to move forward within the set limitations.
The board approved Doug Smith’s hiking modifications for hikes during COVID-19; a maximum of 6 people per event but if other leaders want to collaborate on the same event, they can lead another 6 people at different times and separately.
Our thanks to Lisa Boutry for taking on the role of Vendor Liaison.
Hiking During COVID 19
As situations can change quickly during the COVID 19 pandemic, it is important to check for closures from multiple sources before heading out. Some sources are BC Parks Map, current site and trail closures in BC.
Another good idea is to read the BC Search and Rescue Association’s recommendations for hiking during COVID-19. Search and Rescue, along with Dr. Henry and our government are asking that we keep groups small to practice social distancing. When you can’t social distance, wear a mask. Wash your hands frequently, so bring hand sanitizer on the trail.
General Hiking Safety
Always let someone know where you are going. Plan your route, know the conditions/difficulty of the trail, and check the weather. Check out trip planning with Adventure Smart here.
Have a hiking buddy. You can be prepared with all the essentials in the world, but a hiking buddy can not only help you in an emergency, but they can also encourage you to overcome any difficulties that can arise on the trail.
Know your limits. Be physically prepared to tackle the trail you have chosen.
Carry the Ten Essentials: https://www.northshorerescue.com/education/what-to-bring/
- Flashlight/Headlamp and spare batteries: Evening and night can sneak up fast. Having light can help so that you avoid tripping over roots and rocks as you hike out.
- Extra Food and Water: This is not only good for if you have to spend the night, but if a hike goes longer than planned. Also, we burn more calories when hiking and a trail can end up being more strenuous than we thought and that extra snack can come in handy.
- Extra clothing (rain, wind, water, sun protection)
- Navigational Aids (map, compass, altimeter, GPS, chart, radio, mobile phone)
- Fire Starter
- First Aid Kit: Your kit should now include hand sanitizer.
- Emergency Shelter: Whether it’s a garbage bag or a survival outdoor blanket it can make all the difference if you are caught staying out overnight or in a downpour.
- Sun Protection: Sun protection is essential when hiking. A hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, lightweight long sleeve shirt (many come with SPF), and a necktie/gaiter cooler can save you from heat exhaustion/stroke.
- Pocket knife: It is not only useful to cut your sausage and cheese for lunch but to whittle wood for a fire, tent pegs, cut medical tape, and countless other tasks.
- Signaling Device: Cell phones are useful for many hikes, especially for taking pictures. Do not rely on them in an emergency, for many areas do not have cell service. Read the following article on cell phones and rescue to understand their limitations. Other reliable devices include Garmin InReach, Spot, flashlight, whistle, and a mirror.
Wildlife Safety
There is an abundance of wildlife out on the trails this year. Always make noise and stay with your group. Have a plan before you head out on the trail as to how your group will react if you come across an animal. Below are some links for tips and recommendations.
Bear Safety: For more information about bear safety, refer to the Bear Safety page for tips and links. Know how to use your bear spray.
Cougar Safety: For more information about cougar safety, refer to the Adventure Smart Cougar Safety page for tips and links.
Be safe and have fun out there!
Paulette Gendron – KHC President
- Membership Registration for 2023/2024 - January 16, 2023
- Some Adventures Outside the Hiking Club - January 7, 2023
- Happy Holidays - December 22, 2022