Outdoor misadventures of RFK Jr: a cautionary tale of ill-advised hiking and river swimming in extreme conditions
=============================================================================
In the scorching heat of the Phoenix desert, a family of 11 was recently rescued from a closed trail, highlighting the importance of safety measures during extreme heat conditions. As temperatures soared to over 106°F (41°C), the family braved the trails, reminding hikers everywhere of the potential dangers that lie ahead.
To stay safe in such conditions, experts recommend carrying a lot of water, seeking shaded trails, and wearing breathable, light-colored clothing that wicks sweat. Specifically, loose-fitting, lightweight, and moisture-wicking garments made from synthetic fabrics or merino wool are ideal for hiking in extreme heat.
Tops such as synthetic or merino wool hiking tops, tank tops, short-sleeved tees, and long-sleeved T-shirts with good UPF ratings offer ventilation, sun protection, and help regulate body temperature. Loose-fitting long pants or convertible pants made of moisture-wicking materials protect the skin from sunburn and abrasions while allowing airflow, reducing the risk of chafing.
Underwear and sports bras should be moisture-wicking, comfortable, and supportive, preferably made from synthetic fabrics or blends such as merino wool and nylon, to reduce sweat buildup and chafing. The fit of the clothing should be loose-fitting to allow more air circulation, enhancing comfort and cooling, and reducing heat stress and sweat-induced chafing.
Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon are preferred for their quick-drying properties, moisture-wicking capabilities, and often built-in UPF. Avoid cotton as it retains sweat and slows drying, increasing heat discomfort and chafing risk. Clothing with UPF 50 or higher is advised to protect against UV rays, reducing the risk of heatstroke induced or worsened by sunburn.
Unfortunately, not all bodies of water are safe for swimming, as demonstrated by the case of Robert F Kennedy Jr, who posted several pictures of himself swimming in Rock Creek, a waterway used to drain excess sewage during heavy rainfall. Pollution and algae in water can pose serious health risks, as seen with the presence of blue-green algae, which is highly toxic and can cause skin rashes, vomiting, and liver and brain damage.
Washington DC officials have closed Rock Creek to swimmers due to dangerously high levels of bacteria, and in the US, the How's My Waterway interactive map can be used to track water quality. In the UK, the Surfers Against Sewage live map provides updates on water quality. It's essential to do research on the quality of a body of water before swimming.
The dangers of swimming in Rock Creek were tragically illustrated by the death of a 10-year-old boy a year ago on the same mountain and the recent death of 33-year-old Noah Farabaugh on a hike on the Wave Cave Trail in the Superstition Wilderness.
As hikers, it's crucial to prioritise safety and make informed decisions when venturing into the great outdoors, especially during extreme heat and when swimming in unfamiliar bodies of water. Stay hydrated, wear appropriate clothing, and research the quality of the water before taking a dip. By following these guidelines, we can ensure a safer and more enjoyable hiking experience for all.
- Embracing a health-and-wellness lifestyle entails choosing the right clothing for outdoor activities, such as hiking in extreme heat. Synthetic or merino wool hiking tops, tank tops, short-sleeved tees, and long-sleeved T-shirts with good UPF ratings, along with loose-fitting and moisture-wicking long pants or convertible pants, are essential for regulating body temperature, protecting against sunburn, and ensuring comfort.
- In home-and-garden matters, it's essential to be aware of the potential dangers posed by water bodies, even those commonly used for recreation. As community events like swimming in Rock Creek tragically demonstrate, pollution and algae in water can pose serious health risks to individuals, making researching water quality a crucial aspect of outdoor-living activities.
- To make the most of outdoor-living experiences and ensure a safer and more enjoyable lifestyle, one must prioritize safety measures both during hiking and swimming activities. This includes hydrating properly, wearing appropriate clothing, and researching the quality of a body of water before engaging in water-related activities.
