How to Hike Safely and Avoid Common Injuries

How to Hike Safely and Avoid Common Injuries

M Hasan    5:23 AM   

Understanding Preventable Hiking Injuries

Many hiking injuries are preventable, yet each year in North America, approximately 500 hikers lose their lives, and over 10,000 others require some form of rescue. These statistics have long been a source of frustration for Dr. Robert Scanlon, a physician with over two decades of experience in critical care and an avid hiker and backpacker.

Scanlon took up hiking later in life as a way to manage the stress of his profession. However, he quickly became aware of the number of people who were injured, killed, or required search-and-rescue efforts. This realization led him to examine the recurring issues that contribute to these incidents. He found that most of these situations could be traced back to five key preparation skills: hydration, weather awareness, navigation, crossing waterways, and height and fall risk management.

The Importance of Preparation

Scanlon’s research led him to a quote by Desmond Tutu that resonated deeply with him: “There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why they’re falling in.” This insight inspired him to explore the root causes of hiking-related accidents and develop strategies to prevent them.

His findings culminated in a new book titled Surviving the Trail, which offers practical advice on how to prepare for hikes effectively. Scanlon emphasizes that while trails welcome all, many hikers arrive with more enthusiasm than knowledge. His goal is to provide a foundation of knowledge and pre-hike strategies that can significantly reduce the likelihood of dangerous situations.

Hydration Strategy

One of the most crucial aspects of trail preparation is hydration. Simply bringing water is not enough, according to Scanlon. The amount needed varies based on factors such as pace, terrain, humidity, and temperature. For instance, a hike in a desert environment like southern Utah may require significantly more water than a walk through the Adirondacks.

Hikers should calculate their water needs based on these variables and decide whether they will carry it themselves or collect it from natural sources. If collecting water, it’s essential to have the necessary tools, such as filters and purification tablets, to ensure it’s safe to drink.

Scanlon notes that even a basic hydration strategy is better than none, as dehydration can lead to serious health complications.

Preparing for the Elements

Weather conditions can change rapidly, especially in mountainous regions. Hikers often underestimate how quickly the weather can shift, leading to unexpected challenges. For example, a hike in Colorado might start off sunny but quickly turn into a stormy situation due to the unpredictable nature of mountain weather.

To stay safe, hikers should familiarize themselves with the expected weather conditions for their destination. Dressing appropriately for both hot and cold temperatures, carrying multiple layers, and planning the timing of the hike to avoid extreme heat are all essential steps. Staying hydrated and taking regular breaks to assess one’s condition can also help prevent heat exhaustion or hypothermia.

Learning to Navigate

Navigation is another critical skill for hikers. Many people get lost due to wandering off the trail, poor weather conditions, or losing their group. Solo hikers, particularly men, are at a higher risk of getting lost, with 79% of those who become lost hiking alone.

Scanlon suggests that hikers learn to follow trails, recognize site-specific markers like cairns or tree swaths, and know how to read a map. Investing in a GPS device or learning to use a compass can also be invaluable. Additionally, hikers should carry a headlamp in case they need to navigate at night.

Minimizing the Risk of Falling

While hydration, weather, and navigation are the most common issues, hikers must also be prepared for potential hazards like water crossings and heights. Even a short fall from a height can result in serious injury. Scanlon recommends that hikers study maps and satellite images of their intended route to understand elevation gains, difficulty levels, and potential risks.

The Ultimate Goal

Scanlon believes that by focusing on these five key areas—hydration, weather, navigation, water crossings, and height awareness—hikers can significantly improve their safety. In today’s social media-driven world, it's easy to get caught up in the idea of reaching a scenic vista for a perfect photo. However, Scanlon reminds readers that the ultimate goal of any hike is to return home safely.

Phoenix Heat Relief: Fixing Deadly Hot Bus Stops

Phoenix Heat Relief: Fixing Deadly Hot Bus Stops

M Hasan    7:00 PM   

The Challenge of Heat at Bus Stops in Phoenix

On a summer day in the Sonoran Desert, where temperatures often soar to 110 degrees Fahrenheit, waiting for a bus can be uncomfortable — even deadly. In 2023, at least 21 people died from heat exposure at bus stops in Phoenix, Arizona, according to data from the city’s health department. With over 4,000 bus stops across the city, only 77.5% currently have shade structures. While the city has pledged to add shade to each stop by 2050, recent studies suggest that not all shade structures are equally effective.

Assessing the Current Shade Structures

In 2017, Phoenix partnered with Arizona State University students to redesign its bus stops. The new design used perforated steel panels to optimize ventilation and reduce heat retention. It also aimed to prevent vandalism. The project won an award and began the manufacturing process. However, a 2021 study from Arizona State University raised concerns about the effectiveness of these designs.

The study found that while shaded bus stops reduced the "physiological equivalent temperature" (PET) by up to 38 degrees, the mean PET score was still 113 degrees — nearly 13 degrees above the acceptable thermal comfort threshold. About half of the riders surveyed reported feeling "hot or very hot." Additionally, man-made surfaces like concrete and metal benches reached temperatures as high as 111 degrees, which is at or above the skin-burn threshold.

Psychological factors also played a role. Riders at more aesthetically pleasing bus stops felt cooler, even when there were no significant changes in the surrounding environment. This suggests that design elements such as art, vegetation, and structure can influence how people perceive heat.

Innovative Strategies in Other Cities

Phoenix is not alone in tackling this issue. In Seville, Spain, a pilot bus structure uses solar panels to power a passive cooling system that circulates water beneath the shelter, reducing temperatures by up to 36 degrees. The structure costs approximately $30,566, compared to $18,500 for standard bus shelters in Phoenix.

In Florida, researchers are using artificial intelligence to assess heat exposure at bus stops. Xiang "Jacob" Yan, an assistant professor at the University of Florida, developed a "Transit Heat Exposure Index" to determine how hot it gets for people waiting for public transit. This helps cities prioritize upgrades to the most vulnerable areas.

Testing Reflective Materials

Arizona State University collaborated with 3M to test reflective film on bus shelter roofs in Tempe, a suburb of Phoenix. The material reflected sunlight and radiated heat skyward, making the area under the shelter cooler. Riders under the shelters with the film felt 2-4 degrees cooler than those without it. However, Tempe officials paused further testing due to limited resources.

Lessons from Phoenix's Light Rail System

Phoenix's light rail system, operated by Valley Metro, offers a model for other cities. Light rail stops have both vertical and horizontal shade structures, providing coverage during late afternoon and morning hours. These stations also incorporate drought-resistant trees and vegetation. However, light rail stops are fewer in number — only 28 across the metro area — compared to thousands of bus stops. This makes it more challenging to allocate resources for every single stop.

City-Wide Efforts and Challenges

Phoenix is evaluating a range of shade and heat mitigation strategies through partnerships with the Smart Surfaces Coalition and the National League of Cities. Valley Metro and the city also provide information on cooling centers and water locations. They distribute fans and sunscreen and train staff to recognize signs of heat illness. Last summer, the city spent about $3 million on broader heat response programs.

Despite these efforts, the system faces challenges. Heat-related emergency calls often involve individuals who have used drugs or alcohol. In 2023, 81% of the 21 deaths at bus stops involved substance use, which is significantly higher than the overall rate for heat deaths.

A Personal Perspective

Steve Drotman, an 84-year-old regular bus rider, relies on public transit due to declining vision. He chooses morning routes and wears a wide-brimmed hat to avoid the worst of the heat. However, he sometimes waits 30 minutes for a bus, searching for shade. Despite the challenges, he remains loyal to public transit.

Others are less positive. Some riders complain about late or missed buses, leading to long waits. Public transportation is also seen as slower than driving, with a 28-mile trip taking about 91 minutes. There is also a stigma that the system serves only the most vulnerable.

Phoenix's Vision for the Future

Despite these challenges, Phoenix aims to become the world's most sustainable desert city by 2050. This includes doubling the current tree and shade canopy to cover 25% of the city. Research shows that trees provide greater cooling benefits than shelters, reducing the risk of extreme heat.

During the record-breaking 2023 summer, a study in Tucson found that ground temperatures at bus stops without shade reached 124 degrees, while those with tree shade reached 108 degrees. This 16-degree difference can be critical for survival.

As Phoenix continues to improve its infrastructure, the goal is to ensure that all residents, especially those who rely on public transit, can navigate the city safely and comfortably. Every action taken to address heat exposure is a step toward a more equitable and sustainable future.

21 of the Dumbest Near-Death Moments That Are Hilarious to Terrifying

21 of the Dumbest Near-Death Moments That Are Hilarious to Terrifying

M Hasan    3:30 AM   

Wild and Dumb Near-Death Experiences That Could Have Been Much Worse

There’s something oddly comforting about hearing stories of people almost dying from what seems like the most ridiculous reasons. These tales often highlight how close we can come to danger without even realizing it. From choking on candy to accidentally electrocuting oneself, these experiences are both terrifying and strangely humorous. Here are some of the most unforgettable near-death moments shared by individuals who somehow managed to survive.

1. A Childhood Mishap with Candy

One person recalls a childhood incident where they were passing around a bowl of hard Christmas candy. As they took a breath, they received a final whack on their back while hanging upside down by their feet. The candy bounced onto the floor, and they were left in shock. Years later, they had another close call when a bean landed in their airway while eating chili. They jumped up from the table, which allowed them to expel the bean, only to be scolded by their husband for the dramatic move.

2. An Allergic Reaction at Law School

Another story involves a person who ate a Larabar on the first day of law school. Unbeknownst to them, they were extremely allergic to cashews, which make up most of the bar. This led to an ambulance ride, an EpiPen, hospital admittance, and an IV treatment. It was a shocking start to their legal education.

3. A Kitchen Accident with a Refrigerator

A high school job in a family-style restaurant kitchen turned dangerous when someone decided to clean the inside of a stand-up refrigerator. While wiping the interior, they wrapped a damp cleaning rag around their finger and inserted it into a hole near the top—only to discover it was where the lightbulb would go. The next moment, they were flung across the kitchen and landed on the grill, suffering burns that took time to heal.

4. A Shocking Experience with a Toaster

At the age of a tweenager, someone thought the inside of a new toaster looked interesting and stuck their finger in to feel it. What followed was a cartoon-like experience with zig-zag lightning bolts and a face contorted in agony. Their mother remained unfazed, and the incident left a lasting impression on their memory.

5. A Dangerous Dare with Gasoline

At around 10 years old, someone was dared to drink gasoline. The result was immediate sickness, leading to crawling home and vomiting. They never told anyone about it until now, highlighting the dangers of peer pressure.

6. A Life Saver Mint and Choking

While getting their hair washed by their mom, someone leaned down and choked on a Life Saver mint. Fortunately, their mom used the Heimlich maneuver to save them. The irony was that the mint nearly ended their life.

7. A Snowy Driving Incident

During winter, someone was driving backroads in the country when they saw an oncoming car. The situation was tense, but no further details were provided.

8. A Golf Ball to the Eye

On their honeymoon, someone tried to speed up play on a golf course by hitting their drive first. Unfortunately, they didn’t move out of the way enough and were hit by a golf ball in the eye, resulting in a shattered orbital and loss of vision in that eye.

9. Confronting Trauma at a Shooting Range

After losing an uncle to a self-inflicted gunshot wound, someone was encouraged by their husband to confront their fear by visiting a shooting range. This was a brave step toward healing.

10. Electrocution from a Key

Someone was old enough to know better but still stuck a key in an outside outlet. They found themselves lying on their back looking up the stairs at their younger sister, who saw it but didn’t move. Though there was no obvious damage, they later experienced issues with electricity.

11. A Close Call with a Discus

As a freshman in high school, someone was practicing long jumps near discus throwers. A discus grazed the top of their head, leading to stitches. A few inches lower, and the outcome could have been much worse.

12. A Lamp and a Towel

To cope with the darkness, someone covered a lamp with a towel. However, the towel touched the bulb directly, causing smoke. Their mother's intuition saved them before the situation escalated.

13. A Shock from an Electric Toothbrush

In the late '60s, someone used an electric toothbrush and mistakenly put their finger between the prongs to find the plug. The result was a bad shock, and their dad called it "stupid."

14. A Bow and Arrow Incident

While driving a pick-up truck, someone was hit by a bow and arrow shot by a friend. The arrow came through the windshield and stopped at their neck, leaving them lucky to be alive.

15. A Crosswalk Accident

In 1969, someone was hit by a car while crossing the street in a crosswalk. The driver was distracted, and the person was knocked about 10 feet. They spent three days in the hospital and lost Superman comics in the process.

16. A Failed Outlet Fix

Someone attempted to fix an outlet without guidance and ended up being electrocuted. The experience taught them a painful lesson about DIY electrical work.

17. A Peeing Incident with a Light Socket

As a toddler, someone peed in a light socket after being taught to pee in the drain behind a pool. A wall of fire burst out, and their grandmother arrived just in time to prevent a disaster.

18. A Spray Bottle Mistake

Curious about what a spray bottle looked like, someone looked straight into it and squeezed the trigger. The chemicals entered their eyes, nose, and mouth, causing pain but no lasting damage.

19. A Near-Drowning in the Pool

In elementary school, someone jumped into the deep end of a pool without knowing how to swim. They nearly drowned, grabbing the side of the pool for survival. No one noticed their struggle, highlighting the importance of supervision.

20. A Head in the Window

As the youngest in a family with two older brothers, someone was dared to stick their head out of a car window. Their brother pushed the up button, trapping their head in the window. Their dad intervened, preventing a potentially dangerous situation.

21. A Peanut Butter Pretzel

Someone with a severe peanut allergy was given a peanut butter-filled pretzel in sixth grade. They ate it, unaware of the danger, and were met with a shocking realization.

These stories serve as reminders of how unpredictable life can be. Each one is a testament to survival and the importance of learning from mistakes. If you have a similar story, don’t hesitate to share it!

DRLs: Your Car's 'Safety' Feature Could Be a Danger

DRLs: Your Car's 'Safety' Feature Could Be a Danger

M Hasan    9:51 AM   

Understanding Daytime Running Lights (DRLs)

Daytime running lights (DRLs) have become a standard feature in most new vehicles, illuminating the road ahead of the driver. These lights are designed to enhance vehicle visibility during daylight hours, with the primary goal of reducing the likelihood of collisions, especially in adverse weather conditions. However, despite their widespread adoption, there is ongoing debate about their true effectiveness and how they impact road safety.

The idea behind DRLs is that by making vehicles more visible, drivers can better anticipate the presence of other cars on the road. This concept has been embraced by many manufacturers as a way to improve overall traffic safety. Yet, skepticism remains, particularly regarding the actual benefits these lights provide in real-world scenarios.

The Debate Over DRLs

One of the main concerns raised by drivers and automotive experts is the potential for confusion caused by DRLs. Many people assume that if their DRLs are on, their headlights are also active. This misunderstanding can lead to dangerous situations, especially at night when proper lighting is crucial. Some drivers have reported seeing vehicles without taillights, which can make it difficult for others to spot them from behind.

This issue is further complicated by varying state regulations regarding the use of headlights and DRLs. Drivers may not always be aware of the specific rules in different jurisdictions, leading to inconsistent practices and increased risks on the road. Additionally, some critics argue that DRLs may create a false sense of security, encouraging drivers to rely too heavily on automated systems rather than maintaining personal vigilance.

Impact on Motorcyclists

Another significant concern is the effect of DRLs on motorcyclists. Unlike cars, motorcycles have traditionally required their headlights to be on at all times, making them more visible to other drivers. With the rise of DRLs on passenger vehicles, this distinct visibility has diminished, potentially increasing the risk of accidents involving motorcyclists. Studies suggest that the widespread use of DRLs may contribute to a situation where motorcycles are less noticeable, leading to more collisions.

This shift in visibility dynamics raises important questions about the design and implementation of vehicle lighting systems. While DRLs aim to improve safety, they may inadvertently create new challenges for vulnerable road users like motorcyclists.

Mixed Results from Research

Research conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has shown mixed results regarding the effectiveness of DRLs. Some studies indicate a minor reduction in crash severity for certain types of vehicles, but the overall impact on road safety remains unclear. One report noted that DRLs could actually increase the number of single-vehicle-to-motorcycle crashes during the day, highlighting a potential drawback of the technology.

These findings underscore the complexity of the issue and suggest that DRLs may not be a one-size-fits-all solution for improving road safety. Instead, they require careful consideration and possibly additional features to ensure that all aspects of a vehicle's lighting system work together effectively.

The Need for Better Design

Many drivers and safety advocates believe that car manufacturers should take a more proactive approach in addressing the limitations of DRLs. One proposed solution is to integrate features that automatically activate both headlights and taillights under certain conditions, such as when windshield wipers are in use. This would help ensure that vehicles remain fully visible in adverse weather conditions, reducing the risk of accidents.

Additionally, there is a growing call for greater accountability from manufacturers in ensuring that vehicle lighting systems meet safety standards. By incorporating advanced technologies and designing systems that prioritize visibility and safety, automakers can play a key role in enhancing road safety for all users.

Looking Ahead

As vehicle technology continues to evolve, the future of DRLs will likely depend on ongoing research, consumer feedback, and innovations in automotive engineering. While the current debate highlights both the advantages and disadvantages of DRLs, it is clear that a comprehensive approach is needed to address the challenges they present.

Ultimately, the goal should be to harness technology in a way that complements responsible driving habits while ensuring that all road users are seen and accounted for. By fostering a culture of awareness and shared responsibility, we can work towards a safer and more inclusive driving environment for everyone.

Wife's Terrifying Response as Husband Dies in MRI Suction Accident

Wife's Terrifying Response as Husband Dies in MRI Suction Accident

M Hasan    4:54 AM   

A Tragic Incident at an MRI Facility

The grieving wife of a man who tragically died after being sucked into an MRI machine in New York has shared her heart-wrenching story, revealing the traumatic moments that led to her husband’s death. Keith McAllister, 61, suffered critical injuries when he was pulled into the machine by his necklace at Nassau Open MRI in Westbury, Long Island. He later succumbed to his injuries, according to local authorities.

For the first time since the incident, Adrienne Jones-McAllister, the woman’s wife, spoke about the harrowing experience. She described how she had an MRI on her knee and needed assistance getting up, so she asked the technician to bring her husband to help her off the table. During an MRI scan, patients and anyone in the room are typically instructed to remove all jewelry and piercings due to the strong magnetic fields generated by the machine.

However, Ms. Jones-McAllister revealed that the technician allowed her husband to enter the room even though he was wearing a 20-pound weight-training chain. She recounted the horrifying moment when she saw her husband walk toward the table and the machine "snatch him" immediately.

As he approached her, she said, "At that instant, the machine switched him around, pulled him in, and he hit the MRI." Tears streamed down her face as she recalled the desperate plea: "I said: 'Could you turn off the machine, call 911, do something, Turn this damn thing off!'"

Her husband went limp in her arms, and the memory continues to haunt her. She described how the technician tried to help pull her husband off the machine but it was impossible. "He waved goodbye to me and then his whole body went limp," she told the TV outlet.

According to Ms. Jones-McAllister, her husband suffered several heart attacks after being freed from the machine and eventually died. She claimed that this was not the first time she and her husband had visited Nassau Open MRI, and that he had worn his chain there before.

She explained, "That was not the first time that guy has seen that chain. They had a conversation about it before." She added that previous interactions included comments like, "Ooooooh, that's a big chain!"

This incident is not the first time an MRI machine has caused a fatality in New York. In 2001, six-year-old Michael Colombini of Croton-on-Hudson was killed at the Westchester Medical Center when an oxygen tank flew into the chamber, drawn in by the MRI's 10-ton electromagnet. In 2010, a lawsuit was settled for $2.9 million.

MRI machines use strong magnetic fields that can exert powerful forces on objects made of iron, some steels, and other magnetizable materials. According to the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, these machines are strong enough to fling a wheelchair across the room.

Nassau Open MRI has not yet responded to requests for comment. The tragic event has raised concerns about safety protocols and the importance of adhering to guidelines to prevent such incidents in the future.