If your recreation activities take you off of established roads, please consider the following safety tips:
Does someone know where you are? If you head out to the woods, let someone know where you are going and when you plan on returning and don't deviate from your plans. That way, if there is an emergency that prevents you from returning home, you can be sure folks know where to start looking for you.
Safety orange is not just for game hunters. High visibility clothing is your friend whether you are traveling on a designated trail, hunting for deer, fishing a remote stream or foraging for mushrooms. It makes you visible not just to your fellow visitors but to search teams as well.
Can you survive the night? Carry food and water with you whenever you are in the woods even if you only plan on being in the woods for a few hours or away from your vehicle for a short time. Temperatures can vary wildly during the early days of autumn so taking an extra layer with you when you head into the woods can be a lifesaver.
How's your whistle? Most foresters carry a whistle with them at all times when they are crashing through the brush. The sound of a whistle will carry farther than the human voice and can be used alert people to your presence.
Shelter in place. If you do get turned around when you are out in the woods the best thing you can do is to stay in one place. It's easier to find someone when they remain stationary.
And finally, keep a good thought. Your best friend in planning and enjoying a forest visit or in working through an emergency situation is a positive attitude.
See you in the woods!