Unwanted advice for outdoor enthusiasts: RFK Jr's latest hikes demonstrate extreme caution needed, featuring denim trails in scorching heat and unexpected swims in contaminated waterways
In a surprising turn of events, environmental activist Robert F Kennedy Jr was recently spotted swimming in Rock Creek, a body of water that has been closed to swimmers due to dangerously high levels of bacteria.
Rock Creek, located in London, is often used to drain excess sewage during heavy rainfall. Swimming in such a creek poses significant dangers to human health, with the potential for skin rashes, vomiting, and even liver and brain damage due to the presence of blue-green algae.
Washington DC officials have closed Rock Creek to swimmers in the past due to these concerns. However, Kennedy's decision to swim in the creek has raised eyebrows and sparked a conversation about the importance of adhering to health advisories.
Kennedy, known for his advocacy for environmental causes, shared an image of himself swimming in Rock Creek on social media. The image was taken at Camelback Mountain, a popular hiking spot that has also seen its fair share of tragedies. A 10-year-old boy died of heatstroke on Camelback Mountain a year ago, and just a couple of weeks prior, 33-year-old Noah Farabaugh died on a hike in the Superstition Wilderness.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety while engaging in outdoor activities, especially during extreme heat. Carrying a lot of water and seeking shaded trails are ways to stay safe in such conditions. Phoenix area trails are often closed during the day when temperatures are predicted to reach triple digits for this very reason.
When it comes to clothing, jeans are not the best choice for hiking, especially in extreme heat. Jeans are made of denim, a cotton fabric that retains heat and moisture, causing increased sweating and discomfort. They also dry very slowly if they get wet, leading to prolonged dampness and discomfort. In hot weather, wearing jeans can exacerbate heat stress, increasing the risk of heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke.
Recommended alternatives to jeans for hiking include hiking pants, shorts, or skorts made from moisture-wicking, breathable, and stretchy fabrics. Clothing that protects from sun and insects, such as lightweight long pants and long sleeves, also help prevent heat rash and tick bites. Using anti-chafe balm or lubricants on the skin can help reduce irritation from friction during hikes.
In the end, it's crucial to prioritise safety and health when engaging in outdoor activities. It's advisable to check the water quality before swimming and to wear appropriate clothing for hiking. By doing so, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the great outdoors.
[1] https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/hiking-pants-review/ [2] https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/hiking-pants.html [3] https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/heat-cramps/art-20046261 [4] https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/heat-exhaustion/art-20045985 [5] https://www.outdoorgearlab.com/insect-repellent-clothing-review/
- Engaging in outdoor activities such as swimming in Rock Creek or hiking at Camelback Mountain requires prioritizing health and safety, especially in extreme weather conditions, as demonstrated by the tragic incidents that have occurred.
- For hiking, it's recommended to avoid wearing jeans due to their tendency to retain heat and moisture, instead opting for hiking pants, shorts, or skorts made from moisture-wicking, breathable, and stretchy fabrics.
- To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience in the great outdoors, it's advisable to check the water quality before swimming, wear appropriate clothing for hiking, and use sun and insect protection clothing while being aware of the risks of heat-related illnesses. [Recommended resources: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
