This week’s story of a woman suffering from Lyme disease was an apt reminder of the risks of outdoor recreation. Living here in nature’s playground, it’s easy to forget her powerful potential. A fun outing can quickly transform into a narrow escape — with a little luck, and preparation.

So if you’re going backcountry even just for the day, follow Scouts’ advice and take these “Ten Essentials” from “Mountaineering: The Freedom of the Hills”:

1. Navigation. Topographic and other maps in a waterproof container, plus a magnetic compass and altimeter, or GPS receiver.

2. Sun protection. Sunglasses, sunscreen for lips and skin, hat, full-coverage clothing.

3. Insulation. Hat, gloves, jacket, extra clothing for coldest possible weather during current season.

4. Illumination. Headlamp, flashlight, batteries. LED bulb is preferred to extend battery life.

5. First-aid. Pre-made supply kits have many of these, but a make-your-own should include assorted Band-Aids, 4-inch closure strips for closing wounds, sterile gauze pads and roll, adhesive tape, multi-use tool/knife, tweezers, scissors, thermometer, malleable splint, irrigation and suction syringes, safety pins, cotton swabs, Ziploc bags, insect repellant, antibiotic and hydrocortisone creams, antiseptic pads, iodine, aloe vera gel, pain relievers, antihistamines, antacids, rehydration salts, paper and pencil, and a first-aid instruction booklet.

6. Fire. Butane lighter and matches in waterproof container.

7. Repair kit and tools. Knives, multi-tool, scissors, pliers, screwdriver, trowel/shovel, duct tape, cable ties.

8. Nutrition. Extra food for an additional day (for emergency). Dry food is preferred to save weight, but usually needs water, so don’t forget water bottles and ideally, a portable water purification system.

9. Hydration. Carry an extra 2 liters of water for that unplanned additional day.

10. Emergency shelter. Tarp, space blanket, bivouac or tube tent, jumbo trash bags, insulated sleeping bag.

Hiking and backcountry experts also recommend a trowel and signaling devices, such as a whistle, mobile phone, two-way radio, satellite phone, unbreakable signal mirror or flare, and laser pointer for unexpected emergencies.

By keeping the Ten Essentials handy in the car, even those spontaneous summer treks can be better prepared. So stay safe, and have fun.

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Sholeh Patrick is a columnist for the Hagadone News Network whose outdoor enthusiasm wanes long before nightfall. Contact her at Sholeh@cdapress.com.