Brave the Elements

• If you cannot swim, stay in very shallow water at the river's edge.
• Always swim with a partner. Never swim alone.
• Supervise children at all times in and near the water. Remember: there are no designated swimming areas or lifeguards in Los Padres National Forest.
• Be aware of river hazards including deep pools, shallow areas, uneven footing, immersed objects such as rocks and vegetation, and strong currents.
• Never swim after consuming alcohol or using drugs.
• Do not use glass or other breakable containers in or near the water. · Never jump or dive into the water. The water may be shallower than it appears; there may be rocks or other hazards under the surface that you cannot see.
• Do not slide down rocks into the water. You may lose control and be seriously injured.
• Stay away from waterfalls. The rocks next to and under falls can be slippery and loose.
• While rafting, tubing, kayaking, or engaging in other water craft activities always wear a life vest and a helmet.

Winter Safety

• Call before your trip to obtain current road and snow conditions. Call Caltrans at (800) 427-7623 or visit their website http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo/hi.htm for conditions.
• Leave your itinerary with a friend or family member. Don't travel alone. Take a good map.
• Wear layered clothing, gloves, a warm hat and footwear suited to wet and rugged terrain.
• Carry blankets, dry clothing, extra food and water, a flashlight, first aid kit, matches and a shovel in the trunk of your car.
• Make sure your tire chains fit properly and that you know how to install them. Make sure your wiper blades work. Fill up the gas tank.
• Watch for heavy, slow-moving traffic. Don't pass cars except in passing lanes. Always park off of the traveled portion of the road where you are not blocking traffic or other roadways.
• Watch for ice on the road, particularly in late afternoon shadows. Beware of "black ice" - pavement that looks clear but is glazed over with ice.
• Be careful when hiking or walking in snow and icy areas. Watch your footing.
• When sledding or tubing, be sure you have a safe place to stop with plenty of distance between you and trees, parked cars and other people.
• If you become lost or injured, stay calm and dry, and shelter yourself from the elements if you can. Do not wander from your planned route. Use your cell phone to call 911, but don't rely on your cell phone to summon help. Cell phones don't work in many areas of the forest.

Other tips for snow play :

• There is a lot of private land inside Los Padres National Forest in the Mt. Pinos Ranger District near the communities of Lebec, Frazier Park, Lake-of-the-Woods, Pinyon Pines and Pine Mountain Club. Respect private property. Do not park your vehicle or play on private property.
• Figueroa Mountain has less private land, but respect the private land that is in the area.
• Use the trash receptacles provided; better yet, take your trash home with you.
• Be sure to display your National Forest Adventure Pass, Golden Eagle Pass, Golden Age Pass, or Golden Access Pass on your vehicle if you are parked within the national forest while recreating. This applies for all types of recreating, both summer and winter.