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Show Take Pain Out Of Summer Hiking Fun Robert Bailey, president of the Utah Safety Council, suggests that hiking can be fun and offers some suggestions to take the aches and pains out of this popular summer . recreational pursuit According to Mr. Bailey, driving and walking are among the nation's . favorite recreational activities. 'Much is ' ald about driving defensively, but all too often we take walking too much for granted. The observation of a few general rules can help minimize possible mishaps or injuries and Increase overall comfort during and after the hike especially those rural excursions into Mother Nature. Don't hike alone. A call for help does little good if there is no one there to. hear it. Walk facing the flow of vehicular traffic off the actual roadway whenever possible, apd wear clothing me carry some object of high visibility to signal otKMmlng drivers. Comfortable shoes are particularly important to the hiker. There are several types to choose from; but the best one is the shoe that fits properly, giving the ankle good support. , According to Mr. Bailey, blisters or bruised feet are frequent results of improper footwear including poor fitting 'socks. A shoe top should be a sturdy material that will resist the tears and abuse caused by sharp rocks, uneven terrain, or branches. The sole should offer good, slip-resistant properties. Comfortable proper fitting clothing is also necessary for the hiker. Clothes too loose may catch or snag on something. Those too tight may bind or cause chaffing. Too many clothes may lead to profuse perspiration. Long pants offer good protection to the legs from scratches, insect bites, etc,- and long slves etfttr similar protection te-tae arms of men, women, and children. Bright colors help hikers to be seen. Woolen garments absorb perspiration and do not wrinkle as quickly as other natural materials. ;Man-ma4e fabrics are less absorbative and are wanner because they do not permit air to circulate through the interstices of the cloth. Thick socks offer a cushion between feet and shoes. The council president suggests, when hiking in mountainous terrain, remember the higher you go, the lower the tern perature. This is especially noticeable at night. A good hiker will plan accordingly when outfitting himself or his hiking party. Also remember, higher altitudes are more taxing to the heart. When planning a hike, allow enough time for a return trip during daylight. Most hiking dangers can be avoided if they can be seen. Rain gear should be carried if precipitation is an ticipated. In some regions, especially in the mountains, rain is a daily occurrence. A novice hiker should not expect to cover more than five miles on his first day of hiking. As in other pursuits, proper conditioning Is necessary. Mr. Bailey suggests that hiking can be enjoyable only If the novice sets a reasonable limit on distance to be covered, walks at a leisurely pace, and rests often. A hiker should have some familiarity with the general area he is walking. His trip should be planned well in advance,, and a copy of his itinerary with an expected time of return should be left with some responsible individual. If the hiking plan is not to follow established trails during part or all of the trip, carry and know how to use a compass properly. Bailey says it is a good idea to know the flora and fauna of the area, and avoid areas where wild animals, snakes, poisonous plants, and unfamiliar wildlife are known to be present. Do not take shortcuts In areas where hunters are known to use, and it is good sense to get permission before crossing fenced or private property. Bailey concludes that common sense and knowledge of safety rules are of primary importance if one is to enjoy hiking as an outdoor recreational nu" sk2 m Stopping in Panguitch to refuel and travel on to Orem, the Jay Osmond family (of the singing Osmonds) paused to visit with the Keith Moore family. The fathers in both families are deaf and found a common Interest in discussing Moore's manual communication machine which permits him to make use of the telephone. The Osmond family left Anmaree, 4, Benjamin, 6, Matthew, 2, seated oi his mother's lap, Lyn Osmond and Geoffrey, IS mo. seated on his father, Tom's lap. The Moore family at right, Keith Moore standing In rear next to Grandma Moore, and Darin, age 10 next to mom, Sharon Moore. |