HIKING NEWS ITEM

Officers Advise Hikers to Use Caution,Common Sense

WEDNESDAY, 24 JANUARY 2007

Lawton - Officials are encouraging hikers to use "caution" and "common sense" when going through Wichita Mountains.

Deputy Refuge Manager Ralph Bryant urges hikers to be prepared for 24 hours. "You should pack like you're going to spend a night even if you're planning a two or three hour hike," Bryant said. Hikers should come with food, water, and cell phone, should have told others about their hiking plans, and should dress for winter.

Bryant also advised hikers to refrain from climbing Mt. Scott since the top part is still covered with ice.

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