The first part of the principle, “Plan Ahead”, covers many ideas related to safety.  Where are we going, what will we be doing, how long will we be gone, who is going with us, and when are we returning?  The second part, “Prepare”, includes questions like, what should we bring, and how much?  These questions and others need to be asked before going on the Florida Trail, whether for fun or work.

For example, if we are doing maintenance work, we obviously need to bring all applicable safety equipment, and any necessary tools and materials.  Depending on the duration of the hike we need to bring enough water and food.  If we forget any of these items we either won’t be able to do the maintenance or we might find ourselves out of our “safety zone”. 

Human beings, while very hardy most of the time, can quickly lose their good sense if their well-being is threatened in some way.  I know a man who taught survival training for the military.  He told me of a search and rescue mission he was on where there was a lost hiker in one square mile of forest.  There were roads on every side of this one square mile.  The hiker had walked in circles as the days went on.  Due to hunger and dehydration, he started irrationally dropping items he thought he didn’t need anymore.  He was found without any gear, and almost no clothing, where he had lain down to die.  This is a very extreme example of what not Planning Ahead can lead to.  Just a little research before heading out, and a compass might have saved his life.

Most of us remember “the Buddy System” from our school days.  The idea is simple; pair up with someone so that no one gets lost and there is always someone to go for help in an emergency.  I’m not saying that we should officially institute the buddy system, but it is still a good idea for those of us constructing or maintaining trail.  Having another person might have also saved the man’s life.

The Forest Service routinely has at least two people present when doing any saw work.  Two sawyers can take turns to avoid either person getting too tired.  Additionally, two heads are better than one when trying to figure out how to cut the tree.  Having someone else to look out for overhead dangers or administer first aid is also safer.  FTA is in accordance with the Forest Service regarding the benefits of having two-person saw crews as a minimum. 

These benefits are not limited to chainsaw work.  Any time we are doing maintenance along the Florida Trail it is a good idea to bring a buddy or two, and having a friend to share the fun is the best reason to bring a buddy on the Florida Trail.

There is a saying, “Proper Planning Prevents Poor Performance”.  Good advice, but I will add that it also increases the chances that we will have a safe and productive trip.  As always…Safety First!

Dave Rohe, Wilderness First Responder