Riding alone questions

[TrekTheKaty]

I leave myself a message on the home phone when my husband is out of town. That way if I don't turn up, someone might eventually know where I headed last. Not the best solution, but cheap. I also keep the ranger number in my cell--hunters are allowed in the wildlife area I used to run at. Occasionally, I ran into a bow hunter that creeped me out. Also, if I get hurt--I figure they are closer than the ambulance. I'm sure they won't mind you checking in--they may even have suggestions on routes!

[gingerale]

I did find out today that while I cannot call out from there in the park, I can send a text message. That was nice to know.

All in all, though, my ride went off without a hitch. I did 20 miles and felt great. I do plan on doing it again and again since it's a good, safe long ride. I was still nervous, but my confidence level got a boost after completing it today with no problems.

[sundial]

That's great! Keep up the good work.

[TahoeDirtGirl]

I'm in a similar situation to yours. My next of kin is 6 hours away and I have a friend here that I either text or call before I take off and then when I get back to the parking lot. Yesterday, I went on a ride that I would consider sketchy at best as it's densely wooded and limited cellphone reception. I am in the market for a SPOT but I haven't seen any yet, not sure where to pick one up? Either case, the phoen works well, as does the flight plan that someone talked about. I always leave one on the front seat of my jeep, flipped over or folded up so no one knows where I went just by looking in my car. I also carry a gps that is meant for the 'rode' (garmin nuvi) and you wouldn't believe how helpful it is here in the East to know which way is toward the parking lot. Helped me from getting very lost last night. Always pack something to eat and a light in case you get really lost and will be riding in the dark. Just a cheapy $25 light for your handlebars is good enough if you aren't intending to be out riding at night. Remember, the days are getting shorter so plan accordingly.

I don't have a road ID but in my camelbak I have my old driver's license that expired with a sticky note with all my emergency numbers. I also have my new address with the phrase "I have a dog" on it, in case something happens.

I really need to get a spot. The best thing about that is family far away can keep an eye on you, not just when you are riding but in general.

[Cha Cha]

A related topic but a good reminder I hope! I always keep a cell phone with me, along with id and emergency contact information. The roads I ride on have good cell coverage and are heavily traveled by cyclists, but my main concern is getting injured and being unable to communicate.

Drugdigest.com has a great free emergency information card form, you can personalize it and it's credit card size. (I got mine off of webmd, but this one is similar.)

http://www.drugdigest.org/DD/SeniorC...373,IT,00.html

I keep one in my seat pack at all times (and my wallet too). I keep my DBF's phone numbers, my doctor's number, my blood type, date of last tetanus shot, and meds taken on it. Basically, the info I would want someone to have if they found me lying at the side of the road.

Hope this is helpful!

[Brandy]

Lately I've been doing more remote rides in the mountains, alone. I have been "filing a flight plan" by emailing my boyfriend my intended route and expected time off of the mountain. He does the same on his rides.

When we are both going to be riding remotely together (though we always split up and do our own thing), our "flight plan" goes to both close friends and family. In fact, our weekend flight plan was emailed to three different people before we left on Friday. It's nice knowing that there is someone out there that knows our plans and intended whereabouts.

We would love to get the SPOT messenger at some point but it's not currently in the budget.

[andtckrtoo]

Another who absolutely thinks your idea is top notch! I used to do Search and Rescue, and I'll tell you that "filing a flight plan" in as many places as possible is a fabulous idea. I wish more people would do that!! It gives a starting point for search teams and trailing dogs if you do get lost.

If I'm hiking solo (well, I never go without my dog, but as he cannot dial 911, it's solo enough), I leave a description of the route I expect to take, the time I left and the time I expect to be back, on the driver's seat of my car. I also leave the same set of info at home.

When I leave from the house, I also leave a detailed description of where I am going and what time I expect to be home (this is important so people know when to start worrying - I always leave a buffer of about an hour or two - depending on the complexity of the hike/ride/run).

I know we don't expect to get lost or get hurt, but neither did any of the people I have searched for. And it never hurts to carry a little extra food, water and even a solar blanket (they come wrapped up and are about the size of a thick wallet) just in case you are forced to spend the night in the dark.

*steps off soap box*

[gingerale]

You all have great ideas. I didn't take food with me this time but definitely will next time. I did carry a whistle with me this time, too, just in case I wasn't able to be seen from the road. And I printed up info with my name, address, emg numbers etc and put it in my bike bag. But I like the idea of leaving a note in the vehicle, even though I've left one at the station up top. I'll do that next time, as well. And I would like the Spot so I'll be getting that with the next paycheck. That way even my dh can keep track of me, even from where he is.

[sundial]

That way even my dh can keep track of me, even from where he is.

It's the next best thing to being there.

[malkin]

"Pumped and ready to ride" is my new favorite pun!

[vinbek]

When I ride, even if its on the road - I let several people know where I am going and when I should be back. A few years ago, I went for a 40 mile bike ride while the kids were in school and my son got sick. They tried calling me and couldn't reach me. They called my husband's cell and he was 3000 miles away on a business trip. My son had to sit there a few hours before I reached him. I felt awful. I now carry a cell phone all the time and let the office manager at the school know if I am going out for a ride. I live in California now and I am always swapping info with my sister in Montana who will go out cross country skiing by herself. She always checks in with the park ranger and e-mails me her route, timing, etc. You can never be too safe. I carry a whistle, cell phone, water, food, ID, and program two ICE numbers in my cell phone. Now, I won't ride further than 20 - 25 miles in distance away from the house. I won't ride off road alone - the last time I went out, I encountered a mountain lion...B