Safety tips
for the wilderness

If plans call for being outdoors -- what trip to Alaska doesn't? -- be sure to consider safety.

Weather can change even quicker than the area's tides, making it an important factor when boating, beachcombing and hiking. Pay attention to changing conditions. Dress appropriately.

Here are a few tips on outdoor safety offered by the Alaska Division of Parks and Outdoor Recreation:

• Learn outdoor skills or travel with an experienced person.

• Plan for delays by bringing extra food and fuel.

• Don't go exceed your capabilities and strengths.

• Let a friend know where you're going, whom you're going with and when you plan to return. Trip plans also can be filed with park rangers.

• Outdoor water sources may be contaminated with "giardia," an intestinal parasite. Bring water with you or purify it in the field. Giardia can be killed by boiling the water for two full minutes or by disinfecting it with the appropriate chemicals.

• Don't pollute.

• Keep a distance from wildlife.

• Know which plants are poisonous and avoid them.

• Discourage vandalism by not leaving valuables in your vehicle while hiking.

Before embarking on a water adventure, read the Alaska Boater's Handbook and the Kachemak Bay supplement, found on the Web at www.dnr.state.ak.us/parks/boating/handbook.htm.

State boating requirements also are available on the Web: www.dnr.state.ak.us/parks/boating/pdf/boatrequire.pdf. The list is divided by requirements for varying boat lengths.

One requirement for all boat sizes is that all persons under 13 must wear life jackets when in an open boat or on the deck of a boat, and when water skiing. A selection of life jackets is available for use under "Kids Don't Float" signs in boat harbors and at river launch sites.

Capsizing of falling overboard accounts for the majority of boating fatalities in Alaska. The state requires one serviceable United States Coast Guard-approved Type I, II, III or V life jacket for each person be onboard.

Filing a float plan with the harbormaster's office or with a family member or friend can take the "search" out of "search and rescue." It includes such information as destination, type of boat, planned return date and contact information. A sample float plan can be found on the Web at www.dnr.state.ak.us/parks/boating/pdf/2005floatplan.pdf.

Tides are another concern in this area of the world, whether you're on a boat or walking on the beach. What may appear to be a good place to boat or a beach wide enough to hike may be strongly impacted by Kachemak Bay's 15- to 28-foot tidal range. Tide books are available at many local businesses. Keep one close at hand.