Hiking & Camping Safety
Time outdoors is good for you, and most trips go fine. Problems start when people go without a plan, the right gear or enough water. A little preparation turns a bad day into a story rather than an emergency.
- Families
- Recreation
- Beginners
Plan the trip
- Choose a route that fits the least experienced person in your group. Check distance, elevation and trail conditions
- Check the weather and fire restrictions, and have a turnaround time. See Thunderstorms & Lightning and Wildfires
- Tell someone your route and when you will be back. Do not rely on phone service
- Know park rules and permits
- Do not hike alone if you are a beginner
The essentials
- Navigation: map, compass or GPS, and a charged phone with a downloaded map.
- Water: carry plenty, and a filter or treatment tablets. Do not drink untreated stream water.
- Food and extra snacks.
- Sun and insect protection: hat, sunscreen, repellent. Check for ticks after the trip.
- Extra clothing: layers, rain jacket and a warm layer. Avoid cotton when cold and wet.
- Light: headlamp with spare batteries.
- First aid kit, a knife or tool, fire starter and a whistle. See Home First Aid.
- Emergency shelter: a space blanket or bivy sack.
On the trail
- Stay on marked trails and stay together. Pace yourself and drink before you feel thirsty.
- Watch for signs of heat illness and hypothermia. See Heat Illness and Cold Stress.
- Do not approach wildlife. Keep a safe distance, store food securely and follow local bear and animal rules.
- Cross streams carefully; do not cross fast or deep water.
At camp
- Pick a flat, dry site away from dead trees and flood zones.
- Build fires only where allowed, in a ring, away from tents and low branches. Never leave a fire unattended, and drown it with water until cold.
- Never use stoves, grills or heaters inside a tent or enclosed space. They can cause fire and deadly carbon monoxide. See Carbon Monoxide.
- Keep food, trash and scented items stored away from your tent as local rules say.
If you are lost or hurt
- Stop, stay calm and think. Do not wander farther.
- Stay put if you told someone your plan; they will look for you. Make yourself visible with bright clothing and a whistle (three blasts is a distress signal).
- Stay warm and dry, and conserve water and food.
- Call 911 if you have service, and give your location. See Calling 911 & Giving Your Location.
Standards & references
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