This article is from the Hiking/Backpacking With Canines, by Terri Watson with numerous contributions by others.
You should let someone know what your travel plans are, especially
when going to a less frequently traveled area. It's also much safer
not to hike alone in such areas. If you are injured or otherwise
unable to return from your outing, then having someone else able to go
for help or to help get you out can mean the difference in some cases
between life and death. You may also be more at risk for adverse
encouters with ornery wildlife or people when you're on your own. If
you insist on traveling alone, a cellular phone can provide some
measure of security but you shouldn't rely on it. Converage is not the
best in some areas and technology is never perfect. (Batteries die,
phones get dropped and break, etc.) In either case, make sure that you
leave a responsible friend a detailed description of your itinerary
and check in with them as soon as you return. The check-in is
essential because if you often forget to check back with them when you
get home, then when you're really in trouble it may take an extra day
for them to realize that there's a problem and notify searchers.
 
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