• Stay alert of your surroundings:

Watch out for tripping hazards, wildlife, and poison ivy/oak.

• Be aware of where you are:

Tewksbury trails are, for the most part, simple to follow and easily exited. In cases of more rural trails, have a map with you in case you lose cell service and GPS.

• Do not enter trails at night.

It is not only against the rules set for Tewksbury Trails, but darkness can lead you astray from the trail.

• Keep dogs leashed.

A number of trails in Tewksbury are used by horseback riders, and an unleashed dog can be a danger to both the horse and its rider. This can also be dangerous for other hikers and dog walkers on the trails.

• Do not disturb or approach wildlife, birds' nests, or beehives.

Wild animals can be aggressive when they feel threatened, and damage can occur to hives or nests.

• Be aware of minor first-aid that may come into necessity for yourself or a friend, and learn signs of dehydration.

• Learn to remove ticks before going into the woods.

• Appropriate Clothing and Closed-Toe Shoes:

The trail terrain is not always easily walked on.

• Water:

Dehydration is extremely dangerous, especially in hot summer months. Drink throughout the day, even if you don't feel thirsty.

• Map or GPS:

Tewksbury trails are not large or rural enough for the risk of losing cell service and GPS, but for larger trails, maps and compasses will help you find your way.

• Whistles:

For larger trails, or for children that may wander and get lost more easily, listening for a whistle can help you or them be located.

• Sunscreen:

Prolonged sun exposure can cause sunburns, and lead to skin damage.

• Bug Spray and Tweezers:

Insect repellent will help keep mosquitoes and other bugs away, and have a pair of tweezers on hand to remove ticks.

• First-Aid Kit:

Have some bandages and sanitizing wipes on hand in case of a fall.

While outside, especially in hot weather, it is important to eat and hydrate adequately to avoid dehydration. To avoid it, drink water throughout the day, even before you feel thirsty.

Signs of dehydration include dizziness and fatigue. These are clear signs to stop, take a break, and drink water until they subside.

To remove a tick, you should have a pair of tweezers and rubbing alcohol on hand.

Clean the area around the tick bite with the rubbing alcohol. Pinch the tweezers as close to the skin/the tick's head as you can, and pull up slowly and firmly, without twisting. Then clean the area again.

Avoid crushing the tick. To dispose of it, you can wrap it in tape and throw it away, or drown it in a container of rubbing alcohol.