Please share an interesting fact about wilderness health & safety.

Poison: Poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are the most common causes of allergic reactions in the us.

Sunburn: Sunburn is a phototoxic reaction with erythema, vesicles, bullae, edema, tenderness, pain.

Sunburn: Sunburn of the tongue can occur in mountain climbers who hold their mouth open "panting" and on lips.

Small: Small "immature" snakes can be deadlier than large adults because can't control venom dose. Get to er fast!

Scorpion: Scorpion stings are painful, but in most cases aren't lethal. Southwestern bark scorpion can kill.

Although: Although some mushrooms are edible, all must be cooked to destroy harmful volatile chemicals.

Running: It's a myth that running water is safer to drink... If it's unfiltered it's not safer.

Keeping: Keeping a fire lit through the night is recommended.

Always: Always acclimatize slowly if not use to altitude. Avoid high altitude sickness.

Apply: Apply insect repellent to exposed skin to prevent any insect bite.

Natural: Natural oils like citronella can pre3vent insect bites with out the dangers of toxic insect repellen.

Suspending: Suspending your camp cache of food between two trees can help prevent bears from getting into it.

Ankle: Ankle high shoes are better suited for treks in the wild.

Many: Many people forget flares on a wilderness trip.

80%: 80% of cat bites become infected because of the puncture-type wound! watch for bone & joint infx!

Only: Only 5% of dog bites develop infection, even though they are 85% of all reported bites.

Accidents: Accidents happen. The 1st step is having the right tools ; knowing how to use them.

Mechanical: Mechanical suction, electric shock, or immersion in ice water are not effective snakebite first aid.

Ignore: Never drink directly from a stream, no matter the altitude or temperature.

Ignore: Keep your food hanging from a rope hoisted over a tree branch..Protect it from scavengers.

Ignore: Plam your hike, trail shoes,hiking sticking, water and flint.Always pace yourself and use GPS.

Ignore: Always check for ticks and beware of tick borne diseases. If you see a target rash, see your MD.

Ignore: Ascend slowly each and stay hydrated during a climb.

Ignore: Stay hydrated and always have emergency gear and extra food in case you have to stay overnight.

Ignore: Respect wildlife. Do not get too close. If you want a closer photo get one at the zoo.