Leave No Trace

By Casey Dunleavy, Grade 7

Mr. Goetke came to our Junior/Senior High School earlier this week to inform the 7^th and 8^th graders about forest safety and awareness. Mr. Goetke has been a New York State Ranger for about seventeen years now. Mr. Goetke explained how people can be responsible doing outdoor activities. Goetke told us steps to take when going hiking, camping, or participating in other outdoor activities. He also informed the 7^th and 8^th grade class what to do in emergency and shared fun facts to make your trip more enjoyable.

Plan.  Decide what routes you might take when you go hiking. Plan when you expect to be back. Don’t take things in the wilderness home. Leave what you see where you found it in the first place, just to respect the wildlife. Prepare for your trip. Make sure you have all the things need such as, food, water, extra clothing, map, compass, rain gear, equipment to make fire, a first aid kit, a cell phone, and are prepared for anything you might encounter during your experience. Tell someone where you will be going and what time you expect to be back in case of emergency. Come with a positive attitude on your journey.

Being careful is something you should consider more than everything else. Drinking water from streams and lake is dangerous due to bacteria; use a filter. Make sure the path you are going provides you with solid footing.. Clean up any litter you might find on a trail, and stay on the trail; getting lost is a serious thing you should prevent by taking certain precautions. Wear the right equipment; hiking boots are the best thing to wear on your feet. Be prepared for the weather, if it is chilly out wear a sweatshirt, or if it is suspected to rain, make sure to bring rain gear.

Outdoor activities can be fun but remember be prepared, follow the precautions and have fun!