As the days get colder, we are reminded of the importance of always being prepared when out adventuring in the mountains. As AdventureSmart says, “no one ever expects to get into trouble outdoors. But, a turn in the weather, mistake in judgment, unexpected injury, equipment failure, or sudden nightfall can quickly change any recreational outing into a crisis.” Spending the night outdoors unexpectedly in the summer is horrific enough, now amplify that by a zillion with the onset of subzero temperatures, rain, snow, wind and early darkness that are already upon us and make it tough for Search and Rescue to get to you. This is why we've dubbed this month SEPTEMBER SAFETY and teamed up with some really great businesses to help keep you safe out there. In partnership with Hikes Near Vancouver, we’re GIVING AWAY ALL TEN of The Essentials for outdoor safety over the last 10 days of September.
HOW TO ENTER
Each day from Friday September 21 to Sunday September 30, there will be a post on @hikesnearvancouver Instagram asking a question about outdoor safety. Like the post and answer the question correctly to receive an entry into the draw to win ALL TEN items being given away. The more days you answer, the more chances you’ll have to win! You must follow both Instagram accounts @valhallapureoutfitters and @hikesnearvancouver to be eligible to win.
BONUS anyone eligible per rules above who has completed the Joffre Lakes Hike Safety Challenge in partnership with BC AdventureSmart and LOWA Canada will receive 5 additional entries for the giveaway! Winner will be announced and contacted in early October.
What are The Essentials for safe hiking?
See the details at adventuresmart.ca but in summary they are the one of The 3 Ts for outdoor safety (Trip Plan, Train, Take Essentials). The Essentials are survival items you should ALWAYS have in your pack for any outdoor adventure, whether the duration is a few hours or several days. They are not the specialized pieces of equipment that you would bring for your given activity (ie sleeping bag for camping, bear spray for hiking), rather they are the basic survival items you should have in ANY outdoors situation.
They are:
- Flashlight, spare batteries and bulb
- Fire-making kit – waterproof matches/ lighter, fire starter/candle
- Signaling device – whistle or mirror
- Extra food and water (1 litre/person)
- Extra clothing (rain, wind, water protection and toque)
- Navigation/communication aids
- First aid kit
- Emergency shelter
- Pocket knife
- Sun protection (glasses, sunscreen, hat)
One lucky person will win ALL TEN safety items!
DAY 1: Black Diamond Ember Power Light
DAY 2: SOL Mag Striker & Waterproof Matches
DAY 3: SOL Rescue Flash Signal Mirror
DAY 4: Platypus Softbottle 0.5L x 2
DAY 5: Watuko Bamboo Headgear
DAY 6: Suunto MCB Compass
DAY 7: Adventure Medical Kits – Ultralight / Watertight .3 Medical Kit
DAY 8: SOL Emergency Bivvy
DAY 9: Leatherman Juice CS4
DAY 10: Aloe Up Sunscreen