Hikers are reminded that they hike along these trails at their own risk and that the Thames Valley Trail Association Inc. is not responsible for any injuries incurred, or loss of way.

Public hikes will be shown as “Open” on the calendar page of the TVTA website and on the Meetup site. Optional: You may bring your printed, filled in waiver form, or sign the waiver sheet at each hike.

The Board is asking all hikers to adhere to the guidelines as spelled out. We want to make sure that everyone remains safe. The “Comings and Goings” email will continue to be used to keep our membership informed. If you have any questions, please email info@tvta.ca.

Hikers need to be aware that hunting season takes place in County Forests, Conservation Areas, Crown Land and on private property, with the permission of the owner. Spring and Fall are hunting seasons. Signs will be posted with hunting dates. Wear bright orange and make noise. Ontario Fish & Wildlife Conservation Act and Trespass to Property Act laws apply. Most fall hunting takes place early-September to mid-December. Most spring turkey hunting takes place April 25 – May 31. Check posted MNR hunting seasons online. Landowners on the Delaware section of TVT between Springer & Miller Road may be hunting on their property.

No place outside is 100% safe from lightning during a thunderstorm. Check the weather forecast and scan the skies. 30-30 Rule – Take appropriate shelter when you can count 30 seconds or less between lightning and thunder. Remain sheltered for 30 minutes after the last thunder. If caught in a level field and you feel your hair stand on end, lightning may be about to hit you. Kneel on the ground with feet together, place your hands on your knees and bend forward. Don’t lie flat.

Wear light coloured clothing, cover skin, avoid perfumes, use 30% DEET. Repel with lemon/eucalyptus and Fisherman’s Formula with picaridin have proven to be effective for 7 hours. Mosquitoes may be carriers of West Nile Disease. Dusk and dawn are prime times for mosquitoes. Contact Middlesex/London Health unit, 519-663-5317, ext. 2300 for info re: health & diseases.

Poison ivy grows in several areas along the trail. The leaf of poison ivy has three leaflets, which can have jagged or smooth edges. Grows as a plant up to 2 feet tall or as a climbing vine in trees. You may develop itchy blisters when coming into contact with the plant, either directly by touching or walking through it, or from pets or equipment that have touched it. Stay on the marked trails and keep pets on a leash and on the trails. If a rash develops, wash affected area of skin with soap and water. Apply calamine lotion. If reaction is troublesome, seek medical care.

Understand your fitness level and pick a trail that matches this level. Tell someone where you are going, when you expect to return, and what to do if you don’t return by an agreed time. Carry identification. Check weather conditions and reports before you start out. Stay on marked paths. When in doubt of trail conditions, turn around and head back the way you came slowly and calmly. Walk in daylight hours. Bring plenty of water and a nutritious snack, insect repellent with DEET, sunscreen SPF 30+, first aid kit with a whistle and flashlight. Learn more about safe walking and hiking by taking the Hike Ontario Safe Hiking course. info@hikeontario.com

Coyotes have been seen on our trails along the Thames River corridor. Make noise and wave your hiking stick to scare off this predator. Keep dogs on a leash. There are warning signs posted by the City advising of coyote activity in the area. For fact sheet visit Thames River Programs, Parks & Natural Areas, London’s ESAs, coyotes.

These ticks may be carriers of Lyme Disease. Check skin and clothing for ticks after hiking, especially in grassy areas. Wear long sleeves and pants to protect yourself. Tuck pant bottoms into socks for extra protection and use DEET. For more info on deer visit Thames River Programs, Parks & Natural Areas, London’s ESAs, deer.