Nobility Outdoors provides an opportunity to disconnect from the chaos of modern technology and immerse yourself in beauty of nature, recreation and relaxation while discovering character through exploration. This begins with proper safety, preparation, and planning. Although all our guides are professional, trained, Wilderness First Responders and all our staff members are versed on the terrane, wildlife, and plants (edible and poisonous) there are some basics you should be familiar with prior to your trip.
Perfumes, laundry detergent, lotion, sweat…you may have more scents on you than you realize. Mosquitos find us by smelling us out, with some fragrances attracting them instead of repelling them. To avoid attracting mosquitos and other bugs, avoid wearing anything with additional fragrances. Instead, opt for fragrance-free soaps, deodorant, lotions, sunscreen, and anything else you may be putting on your skin while on an adventure with us.
Your clothes can make a huge difference in attracting bugs! Bugs favorite colors are blue, orange, yellow, and black, so you’ll get a leg up by avoiding wearing these colors. Light colors also make it easier to spot ticks and other dark insects which is why it’s a popular choice with our guests.
Beyond the color of your clothes, you also will want to choose clothes with tight cuffs. If you’re out on the trails, wear a hat and a bandana around your neck. This will stop bugs from sneaking into your clothing and crawling up your neck, arms, and legs.
The second you’re too cold or hot while out there, things can get miserable. Before going out with us we will inform you of the expected weather forecast. Bring lots of clothing for that type of weather, be it a few pairs of shorts or sweaters to layer.
No matter the forecast, always bring clothing for every type of weather. We have been out there before when it rained instead of having sunshine like the forecast announced. On the other hand, we have also gotten a sunburn because the forecast said overcast skies and rain the whole weekend. You never know!
To prevent getting cold or wet, always bring lots of extra clothes, socks, outerwear, and a good thick beanie.
Plants with thorns, brambles, thistles, and nettles, with their small stinging hairs, can cause temporary pain, but there are other plants that produce conditions that are much longer-lasting and even dangerous.
When it comes to plants that are a problem, most people think of poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac. When people come in contact with the oil in these plants, called Urushiol, it produces a rash, blisters, and intense itching and irritation that can last for weeks.
If the oil comes in contact with the face, especially in or around the mouth or eyes, it will most likely require medical attention, and if the oil gets into the throat, it can lead to severe breathing problems.
You know the saying! Leaves of three, leave them be. Poison ivy is a woody vine that may be growing on trees, poles, stumps, and right alongside other vines. It has three leaves, and as the summer progresses, the leaves will begin to change from green to green tinged with red.
Poison oak is a woody shrub that also has three leaves that change to red or yellow in the fall. Not to be confused with oak trees, the name comes from the leaves resemblance to the trees’ leaves. Poison oak leaves have hair on either side and are duller in color compared to poison ivy.
Hopefully, most adults should know that not all plants and berries in the wild can be eaten. However, some of these poisonous plants look entirely harmless and may tempt young children.
Moonseed berries, white baneberry, elderberry (poisonous unless cooked), holly berries, hemlock berries, mistletoe, and many more are all poisonous. While most berries look tasty, avoid eating them unless you’re 100% certain they are okay to consume.
Children should be instructed as to what can and cannot be consumed and warned not to touch or eat any plant without permission. For example, buttercups can be attractive, but they can damage the digestive system.
Other flowers to avoid include nightshade, foxglove, yellow lady’s slipper, and bloodroot. Of course, there are a ton more. Overall, leave wildflowers alone and enjoy their pretty petals without touching.
Get Challenged, Get Balanced, Get Accountable, Get a Digital Detox Today!
