Hikes do go wrong sometimes, maybe it has happened to you, or someone you know or to someone you have read about online.

The best we could do is to plan the trip as best as we can.. From making sure you have everything you need from a checklist, checking the weather and terrain, as well as the experience and fitness of people going with you, and so on..

No matter what, one day you might experience, if you haven’t yet.. Some of the things that might go wrong like running out of water, forgetting the rain jacket, getting injured, feeling ill, shoes breaking off, etc.. Not to worry almost everyone experiences these during their lifetime hiking! The point here is to learn from other people’s experiences and try to prevent them..

Here are a list of things I have learnt to carry with me no matter what:

• Headlamp
• Emergency blanket
• First aid
• Whistle
• Knife or multi-tool kit
• Phone
• Trekking Pole

What about hiking alone?

My opinion is to best not do it especially if you are in area where no other hikers pass by and there is no phone reception. It just not worth it, something as small as a sprained ankle can make it very difficult for you to handle if you are alone.

When to call it a day?

Sometimes it just wise to turn back and go home. Sometimes it can be a hard decision, but if it involves a life or death situation. it’s always best to head home. Follow you gut!

Important Emergency Numbers in UAE

Here are some important numbers to know. If you can’t remember them all, simply 999 will do and they will connect you to the right people.

• 999 for Police.
• 998 for Ambulance.
• 997 for Fire Department (Civil Defence)
• 996 for Coastguard.
• 800-823727 for Search and Rescue