Forests

Avoid smoking - anything can start a forest fire. Avoid spending a lot of time outdoors and avoid plastic and never hike unaccompanied at night. Group of three or more hikers more formidable and hence are safer than a single hiker is. Stay away from aromatic items. The sharp sense of smell of animals makes them able to detect the presence from far away. Thus, one should avoid beverages, lotions, scents and food with strong aromas.

Dress for comfort: Gumboots or covered shoes, denims, compass, watch, torch, full shirt and a whistle. Be Alert It is important to stay alert while being in an area where there is a probability to find wild animals. Look for the signs of wildlife such as footprints, droppings, scratch marks on trees, etc. One should stay watchful in such areas, as there is a risk of being attacked. The sound of your passing through the woods is a warning for wildlife, and walking quietly means it is more likely you will startle animals you meet, which may in turn react unpredictably. When walking in remote area, plan a route, and let someone know where you are going, and when you will be back.

It is important to stay alert while being in an area where there is a probability to find wild animals. Look for the signs of wildlife such as footprints, droppings, scratch marks on trees, etc. One should stay watchful in such areas, as there is a risk of being attacked.