Embarking on a hiking trip is an exhilarating experience, allowing you to connect with nature, challenge yourself physically, and create lasting memories. Tour guides play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and enjoyment of the journey. However, what happens if something goes awry, and your tour guide is unable to continue leading the group?
Accessing The Situation
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Tour guides are not just leaders; they are experienced navigators, educators, and, most importantly, responsible for the safety of the hiking group. They possess knowledge about the terrain, wildlife, and weather conditions, and are trained to handle emergencies. A tour guide’s expertise ensures that hikers can focus on enjoying the journey while someone qualified takes care of logistics and potential risks.
In an unfortunate accident, an unexpected lightning strike killed a Brazilian tour leader while he was leading hikers on a trail. Leilson de Souza, 36, was leading hikers on a trail excursion in Rio de Janeiro’s Tijuca National Park when he was struck by lightning.
The hikers tried to call a rescue squad but couldn’t get the words out of her mouth; the entire group was stunned. One of the hiker’s husband eventually called the fire department, and a chopper arrived to recover Mr De Souza’s body. The hikers were accompanied back by one of Mr De Souza’s brothers, who was studying to become a tour guide.
Every year, roughly 24,000 people are killed by lightning, with ten times that number injured. People who are struck by lightning have a 90% chance of surviving.
How To Tackle Such Situations?
Despite the meticulous planning and preparation, unforeseen circumstances can arise during a hiking trip. Here are some potential scenarios that could lead to the absence of a tour guide. Here are some guidelines that could help in situations like this:
1. Assess the Situation
Remain calm and encourage fellow hikers to do the same. Assess the severity of the situation and determine if the tour guide’s absence is temporary or if alternative arrangements need to be made.
2. Utilise Communication Devices
If the group has access to communication devices, such as radios or satellite phones, attempt to contact local authorities or the tour company for guidance. Share your location and the nature of the situation.
3. Follow Emergency Protocols
Many tour companies have established emergency protocols for such situations. Familiarize yourself with these protocols before the trip and follow them diligently. This may involve designated meeting points, emergency contact information, and specific procedures to follow in case of an emergency.
4. Emergency Shelter & Supplies
Ensure that the group has adequate shelter, water, and food supplies. If necessary, set up a temporary camp while awaiting assistance. Follow basic survival principles to stay warm, hydrated, and nourished.
5. Review Maps & Navigation Tools
If the tour guide’s absence is due to navigation difficulties, review maps, and utilize any available navigation tools to determine your location and the best course of action. If needed, wait for assistance or backtrack to a known location.
Tour guides are invaluable assets, but by understanding the potential scenarios and taking proactive steps, hikers can enhance their ability to navigate the wilderness safely.
Cover image credits: canva
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