Getting
Lost
in the
Woods
A search and rescue responder talks outdoor safety
Story by: Julia Regeski
Georgia is known for its outdoor beauty. From
its expansive natural coastline to the rolling
peaks in the north, much of this land is made
available for use by the general public. In fact,
the Georgia Department of Natural Resources
reports that approximately 1.85 million acres of
federal land and 565,000 acres of state property
are open for use by those seeking to soak up
the state’s outdoor adventures. In addition, the
world-famous Appalachian Trail begins in in the
North Georgia Mountains, and rambles on for 79
miles before continuing up through Tennessee.
“Georgia is a very unique state,” said Don
Courtesy of Georgia Deptartment of Natural Resources
Photo by Haley Hyatt
Strength, Georgia Emergency Management and
Homeland Security Agency field coordinator for
the northeast area of the state. “You can go from
the city of Atlanta, to a totally different world
in le ss than an hour. And what happens when
people come up to enjoy the beautiful nature –
which I don’t blame them, they should – is they’re
just not prepared for this type of environment.”
Those venturing outdoors are often
unprepared not only for the dangers of the wild
such as cliffs, rushing rivers, wildlife, confusing
terrain, and weather, Strength said, but also
unexpected health challenges that go along with
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Courtesy of Ga. Dept. of Natural Resources Photo by Haley Hyatt