The first component of wilderness safety and survival is "fitness," both physical and mental. Next in line are preparation and caution.

Tom makes the point indirectly, but it is one worth emphasizing, especially in the coming months when an accident can have catastrophic consequences.

Quoting Tom's excellent article "Learn which water is not for you. Don't be overconfident, and realize the limits of your own physical capabilities."

Let's all have a lot of fun through the fall and over the winter, and be safe.

John