Miscellaneous Hazards

There are many hazards of the forest other than creepy, crawly things and poisonous plants. Awareness of these hazards will often suffice in preventing an accident. Common man made hazards are abandoned water wells that were left uncovered, and downed fencing (Figure 55). Natural hazards would be stump holes, exposed roots and dead trees and snags. Old rubbish piles in the forest may indicate an abandoned house site. If so an abandoned well may be nearby that is still open. Stump holes roots and fencing can be avoided by watching where you step. Standing dead trees and snags are common hazards in the forest. They should be avoided particularly on days when the wind is gusting above 20 miles per hour.