The popularity of sports, among children, is soaring and parents are only happy to get them away from the television. Also, the fad of health consciousness has dragged many couch potatoes into the open where, to their surprise, they find themselves enjoying the outdoors! Hiking, camping, and water sports that fall in the same genre are immensely popular as these are group or family activities. Nearly three-quarters of U.S. households with school-age children have at least one child who plays in organized sports.

The accompanying risks, though, are sometimes forgotten in the excitement. Fortunately, mishaps don't have to be "part of the game". To have the most enjoyable trip, keep in mind the following:

• Fitness - be in good physical condition. Always have a warm up and acclimatize.
• Teamwork.
• Self-discipline.
• Knowledge of the area, weather, terrain, and limitations of your body. A group trip should be designed for the weakest member of the group.

A little common sense can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. The most effective way to prevent calamities is to adequately prepare for the trip.

Always travel with a companion. You don't want to be by yourself in case of an emergency. If hiking in a remote area, travel in group with a minimum of four people. So that if one is hurt, another can stay with the victim while two go for help.

Plan the trip carefully; keep someone in the know; let them know details, such as the make, year, and license plate of your car, the equipment you're bringing, the weather you've anticipated, and when you plan to return. Inform them of your itinerary and stick to it. Keep in touch as regularly as possible.

Assign tasks that people enjoy. Don't force decisions on anyone as the goal is to have a good time outdoors. Take turns to lead the group and share decision-making responsibilities. Develop an emergency plan before you start your trip. Make sure everyone knows what to do if they become lost or if a medical emergency arises. Give children whistles with the instructions to "stop and blow" if they become lost.

While hiking, do not travel without appropriate maps, such as topographic maps, and a compass. Check your equipment and maintain them in good working order. Inspect them before the hike and don't forget to include emergency signaling devices. Pack carbohydrate-energy bars, granola, candy, or fruit. They provide an instant pick-me-up on the trail.

Practice your skills in advance. Disorientation is entirely possible with many landmarks and rock formations that seem similar.

Learn basic first aid so you will know how to identify and treat injuries and illnesses. Carry a first-aid kit with you. Bring a customized first-aid kit tailored to your outing. Learn how to identify the symptoms of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, hypothermia, and dehydration, and know how to treat them. Bring sunscreen no matter what the season. You can get painful sunburn even in subfreezing temperatures.

Learn basic repair skills for changing a bike tire, fixing a backpack, or mending a snowshoe. Remember to take repair kits on your trail.

Dress properly. A pair of good hiking shoes, loose-fitting natural-fiber clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must, as these slow down dehydration and minimize exposure. If traveling in winter, when temperatures can often drop below freezing, bring extra-warm clothing.

Before starting out, do warm-up exercises. Stretching gets the body going and increases your flexibility and gradually increases heart rate, temperature, and circulation to your muscles. Start slowly, and develop a gradual increase in your pace. Let the slowest person in your party set the pace. This is especially important when children are a part of your group.

Protect your life with an ear to the ground and your eye on the sky. Watch out for thunder or lightning within vicinity and over nearby hills. Frequently listen to radio weather reports and camp on high ground. Stay away from deep canyons and dry washes during stormy or threatening weather. Be weather wise. Keep an eye on current and predicted weather conditions.

The most important asset when hiking and trailing is not currency, but water. One gallon per person, per day, is the minimum that should be carried. A gallon of water weighs approximately 8 pounds, and when your water ration is half gone, it is time to return. DO NOT RATION YOUR WATER. It will only do you good if you drink it. Also, never forget water for your vehicle.

Alcohol and cliffs don't mix! If you drink, stay away from the cliffs. Judgment, agility, and balance are all reduced by alcohol consumption.

Start making the camp two hours before evening, paying special attention to local regulations, particularly those concerning campfires. Check the selected site for potential hazards such as glass, large ant beds, poison ivy, bees, and hazardous terrain that might flood or become slushy in case of a sudden downpour. Stay put if it is nightfall, if you are injured, or if you are near exhaustion.

Physical activity promotes happiness, satisfaction, self-expression, and social interaction. It is a key component in maintaining healthy minds and bodies. A successful camping experience offers a chance for independence, social development, and good health.