This year is drawing to a close. I am writing some blogs about my work and my life in 2012.

2012/5/14: You know that I subscribe an English newspaper called 21st century every year. I like reading English newspaper, which gives my study a hand. A good idea comes to me that I would like to recommend you some good articles from English newspaper. Let’s study English together.

Be well prepared for outdoor activities

As winter gives way to spring, students feel a quickening pulse for outdoor activities.

However, beware of tragic accidents, such as the Taihu Lake incident several weeks ago. Four students from Shanghai were killed and several injured when their yacht（快艇） hit a tow cable between two cargo vessels. There were several reasons for the accidents. But if the students had worn life jackets, it would have made a big difference.

Take precautions before embarking on trips whether on land or water. 21st century interviewed experienced back- packers and tour guides for advice.

1.Make sure you are physically fit for any activities you get involved. You need stamina（耐力） for hiking or padding a boat after a long, inactive winter.

2.Research your route. Check the weather forecast so you can pack the correct gear so that an unexpected downpour or high winds don’t ruin your day.

3.If you are visiting a different culture, learn some basic knowledge about what’s acceptable and what it not.

4.Take plenty of water and don’t become dehydrated（脱水的）.

5.The correct footwear is also vital, especially for hikers. Leave canvas shoes in the dorm and put on heavy boots. Then you won’t suffer a twisted ankle in the back of beyond.

6.Don’t go to remote areas and never venture into unknown waters.

7.Going in a group is safer than a solo adventure. If have to travel by yourself, leave a note of your itinerary（路线）, contact number of your accommodation and how you are traveling with a family member or roommate. So if there’s an emergency you can be reached.