National Parks Safety Guidelines

Wildlife Safety

• • Maintain safe distances: 25 yards from most wildlife, 100 yards from bears and wolves
• • Never feed wildlife - it's dangerous and illegal
• • Store food properly in bear boxes or bear canisters
• • Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising animals
• • If you encounter a bear, don't run - make yourself appear large and back away slowly
• • Carry bear spray in bear country and know how to use it

Hiking Safety

• • Tell someone your hiking plans and expected return time
• • Carry the 10 essentials: navigation, sun protection, first aid, knife, fire, shelter, extra food, water, clothes, and light
• • Check weather forecasts and trail conditions before departing
• • Start early to avoid afternoon thunderstorms in mountainous areas
• • Know your limits - turn back if conditions become unsafe
• • Stay on marked trails to avoid getting lost
• • Carry and know how to use a map and compass (don't rely solely on phones)

Health Precautions

• • Acclimatize gradually to high altitudes to prevent altitude sickness
• • Drink plenty of water - dehydration is common at elevation
• • Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing (UV is stronger at altitude)
• • Be aware of symptoms of heat exhaustion and hypothermia
• • Carry water purification tablets or filters for backcountry trips
• • Know how to identify and avoid poisonous plants like poison ivy
• • Check for ticks after hiking in grassy or wooded areas

Emergency Preparedness