Alerts

Backcountry Safety

Each year several individuals or parties get lost or hurt in the woods. The most effective way to prevent mishaps is to plan ahead and prepare for your trip. Always check for current conditions and regulations for the area you will be visiting. And please make sure everyone in your group follows these safety tips we have outlined below.

A hiker crosses a log over a small creek in a forested area with fall colors.. — Hiker crossing East Weaver Creek, Shasta-Trinity National Forest
*(Carol Zeigler)*

Travel with a companion.

You don't want to be by yourself in case of an emergency. At minimum you should leave a copy of your itinerary with a responsible person. Include such details as the make, year, and license plate of your car, the equipment you're bringing, the weather you've anticipated, where you plan on going and when you plan to return. If you'll be entering a remote area, your group should have a minimum of four people; this way, if one is hurt, another can stay with the victim while two go for help. If you'll be going into an area that is unfamiliar to you, take along someone who knows the area, or at least speak with those who do before you set out. If an area is closed, do not go there.

Know before you go.

You must expect the unexpected and plan accordingly, even if you are going out for just a few hours. Know ahead of time the location of the nearest telephone or ranger station in case an emergency does occur on your trip. You may want a GPS device, but those sometimes do not receive a signal or the battery fails. Cell phones also likely will not work because of a lack of signal.

Be in good physical condition.

Set a comfortable pace as you hike. A group trip should be designed for the weakest member of the group. If you have any medical conditions, discuss your plans with your health care provider and get approval before departing. Make sure you have the skills you need for your camping or hiking adventure. You may need to know how to read a map and use a compass, erect a temporary shelter, or give first aid. Practice your skills in advance. If your trip will be strenuous, get into good physical condition before setting out. If you plan to climb or travel to high altitudes, make plans for proper acclimatization to the altitude.

Think about your footing while traveling near cliffs.

Trees and bushes can't always be trusted to hold you. Stay on developed trails or dry, solid rock areas with good footing. Wear appropriate clothing for the trail conditions and season.

Check your equipment.

Keep your equipment in good working order. Inspect it before your trip. Do not wait until you are at the trailhead. Be sure to pack emergency signaling devices.

Be weather wise.

Keep an eye on current and predicted weather conditions. In this area, weather can change very quickly. Know the signs for approaching storms or changing weather conditions. Avoid bare ridge tops, exposed places, lone trees, streams, and rocks during lightning storms. Find shelter in a densely forested area at a lower elevation. Even in the summer, exposure to wind and rain can result in hypothermia.

Learn basic first aid.

Learn how to identify and treat injuries and illnesses. Carry a first aid kit with you. Learn how to identify the symptoms of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, hypothermia, and dehydration, and know how to treat them.

Make camp before dark.

Traveling after darkness has resulted in many accidents from falls, so travel only during daylight. Set up camp well away from the edge of cliffs, and learn the terrain during daylight. If you have to leave camp after dark, stay in areas you have seen in daylight, go with a friend, and always use a good flashlight.

Be alert for slippery areas.

Take your time to avoid tripping. Low-hanging branches and variable terrains make running unsafe, and leaves can hide slippery areas underneath.

Be careful when consuming alcohol.

Judgment, agility, and balance are all reduced by alcohol consumption.

Think before you drink!

No matter how clean or pure stream water looks, it's likely to contain water-borne parasites and microorganisms that can cause discomfort and sometimes serious illness. Pack your water in, or purify through chemical treatment.

Recreation Checklist (PDF version)

Know Before You Go!

Contact your local Forest Service office for camping availability and permit or pass requirements before heading out. Also remember to check the weather forecast.

Bring Sun Protection

Use sunscreen, wear a hat and sunglasses, and stay hydrated!

Bring a Compass

GPS may not work in the area of the National Forest you're visiting so bring a compass with you.

Have a Solid Plan

Expect large crowds.
Check road conditions.
Have a full tank of gas.
Does access require 4WD?
Tell someone your plan.

Enough Water

Bring plenty of water (at least one gallon per person/ day), especially in hot or dry regions. Many remote areas will not have fresh water available. Bring chemical treatment or a water purifier for treating water.

Bring a Map

Bring a hard copy map of the area you're visiting and a compass. Visit our map page and obtain a map before heading out. Cell phone service may not be available where you're visiting.

Prevent Wildfires

Know what fire restrictions are in place and be prepared with alternative cooking & heat sources, such as a backpack stove or propane burner. Call the local Forest Service office for information.

Extra Clothes

Make sure you're well equipped with a tent and sleeping bag, sturdy shoes, rain and cold weather gear, and extra clothes. Bring along a well-stocked first aid kit, just in case.

Flashlight or Headlamp

Don't forget extra batteries!

Cooking Supplies

Ensure you have matches/ lighter/ firestarter for a stove or campfire (when allowed), cook pots, eating utensils, and trash bags.

Trail Food

Bring plenty of food, such as granola bars, trail mix, or other compact, nutritious food. Avoid sugary snacks.

Pocket Knife

A pocket knife or multitool can help with food preparation, gear repair, first aid, or other emergency needs.

Pack it In Pack it Out

Carry (a) large, sturdy trash bag(s) to collect all garbage from items brought in and used. Leave No Trace by tying bag to outside of backpack and packing out. Place in open trash receptacle upon return to vehicle. If trash bin is full, take bag home or deposit inside next available receptacle.

Bear Canister

Bear resistant canisters are recommended and available for purchase from retail outlets. Store everything from food, food wrappers, garbage, toothpaste, gum, lip balm, hand lotion, toiletries and other scented items inside, lock lid and place in open area 100-feet from campsite.

Bring a Whistle

If you become lost or separated, stay put and use a whistle. Signal by blowing three blasts (a well-known emergency signal)

Whether you're roughing it in a tent or planning a family outing to a national forest, there are many ways to make sure your experience is fun and safe.

Consider the following safety tips:

Pack a first aid kit. Your kit can prove invaluable if you or a member of your group suffers a cut, bee sting or allergic reaction. Pack antiseptics for cuts and scrapes, bandages, tweezers, insect repellent, pain relievers and sunscreen.

Bring emergency supplies. In addition to a first aid kit, this includes: a map, compass, flashlight, knife, waterproof fire starter, personal shelter, whistle, warm clothing, high energy food, and water.

Learn the ABC's of treating emergencies. Recognizing serious injuries will enable you to attend to a victim until medical help arrives.

Before you leave, find out the weather report. When you arrive at the site, watch the skies for changes and carry a compact weather radio. In inclement weather, find shelter until the worst passes. Stay dry - wet clothes contribute to heat loss. Also, keep sleeping bags and important gear, dry at all times.

Before you leave, find out if you can have a campfire, charcoal briquette BBQ and/or stove where you are going. Contact the closest Forest Service office to where you are going and ask about current fire restrictions. You may also need a California Campfire Permit.

When and where campfires are allowed, only build fires in designated or pre-existing fire rings. Your open fires and fuel-burning appliances must be far enough away from your tent and any flammable trees/brush/grass to prevent ignition from sparks, flames, and heat. Never use a flame or any other heating device inside a tent. Use a flashlight or battery-powered light instead.

Make sure your fires are always attended. Be sure you have an area for a fire that cannot spread laterally or vertically - a grill or stone surface is ideal. When putting the fire out, drown it with water, making sure all embers, coals and sticks are wet. Embers buried deep within the pile have a tendency to reignite later.

Be cautious when using a propane stove. Read the instructions that come with the stove and propane cylinder. Use the stove as a cooking appliance only - never leave it unattended while it's burning.

Arrive early. Plan your trip so that you arrive at your actual campsite with enough daylight to check over the entire site and to set-up camp.

Check for potential hazards. Be sure to check the site thoroughly for glass, sharp objects, branches, large ant beds, poison ivy, bees and hazardous terrain.

Avoid areas of natural hazards. Check the contour of the land and look for potential trouble due to rain. Areas that could flood or become extremely muddy can pose a problem.

Inspect the site. Look for a level site with enough room to spread out all your gear. Also, a site that has trees or shrubs on the side of prevailing winds will help block strong, unexpected gusts.

Pitch your tent in a safe spot. Make sure your tent is made of a flame-retardant fabric, and set up far enough away from the campfire. Keep insects out of your tent by closing the entrance quickly when entering or leaving.

Dispose of trash properly. Remember to recycle—use the proper recycling bins if available. If there are no trash bins, be prepared with trash bags to take your garbage with you in order to dispose of properly.

Watch out for bugs. Hornets, bees, wasps, and yellow jackets are a problem at many campsites. Bring insect repellant and avoid attracting stinging insects by wearing light-colored clothing and avoiding perfumes or colognes. Should such an insect approach, do not wave wildly and swat blindly - instead use a gentle pushing or brushing motion to deter them.

Beware when encountering wildlife. Keep your campsite clean and do not leave food, garbage, coolers, cooking equipment or utensils out in the open. Remember that bears are potentially dangerous and unpredictable—never feed or approach a bear. Use a flashlight at night—many animals feed at night and the use of a flashlight may warn them away. Use bear-resistant food lockers when available. Some wilderness areas require the use of bear-resistant food canisters.

Beware of poisonous plants. Familiarize yourself with any dangerous plants that are common to the area. If you come into contact with a poisonous plant, immediately rinse the affected area with water and apply a soothing lotion such as calamine to the affected area.

Practice good hygiene. Dispose of human waste properly. Make sure you wash your hands, particularly after using the toilet and before handling food, to prevent everyone in your group becoming ill.

A bolt of lightning lights up the night sky

People are most likely to be injured by lightning when mountain hiking, climbing, camping, fishing, boating, and golfing. Many vacationers are unaware of the measures they can take to lower their risk of being struck. They should educate themselves about lightning strikes. They should be near safe shelter and try to avoid high terrain, golf courses, and bodies of water during high lightning activity (late morning to evening).

If you are caught above the tree line when a storm approaches, descend quickly. Avoid isolated trees. It is better to run into a forest.

Electric storms can also develop in the middle of the night. To lower your odds, don't pitch your tent near the tallest trees in the vicinity.

Hikers, golfers, and others should run into a forest if a shelter or car is not nearby.

Drop metal objects like golf clubs, tennis rackets, umbrellas, and packs with internal or external metal frames.

Get off bicycles, motorcycles, horses, and golf carts. Metal bleachers at sports events, metal fences, and utility poles are also to be avoided.

If you are caught in an open field, seek a low spot. Crouch with your feet together and head low.

If Someone Is Struck. People who have been hit by lightning carry no electric charge and can be safely tended to. Also, victims who appear dead can often be revived. If the person is not breathing, begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. But if a pulse is absent as well and you know cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), begin CPR. Stay with the victim until help arrives.

Don't sit or lie down, because these positions provide much more contact with the ground, providing a wider path for lightning to follow. If you are with a group and the threat of lightning is high, spread out at least 15 feet apart to minimize the chance of everybody getting hit.

Don't return to an open area too soon. People have been struck by lightning near the end of a storm, which is still a dangerous time.

Swimmers, anglers, and boaters should get off lakes or rivers and seek shelter when storms approach. Drop any fishing rods. Boaters who cannot get off the water before the storm hits should crouch low. Once on land, get at least 100 yards away from shore.

Remember: This information is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. If you have a health-related concern, consult a physician. Also, the tips discussed here may lower injury risk, but the unpredictability of lightning affords no guarantees.

Trail Courtesy sign shows bikers should yield the trail to hikers, and hikers and bikes should yield to horses.

Multi-Use Trail Etiquette

Respect: If you give it, you are more likely to receive it, reducing negative encounters on the trail. Follow posted signs along the trail.

Communication: Speak up and say hello or ask to pass so that people, and especially horses, know you are there.

Horses Uphill: Horses tend to go uphill when spooked. Stay on the downhill side of the trail to let horses pass.

Yield Appropriately: Be aware of other users, so you are prepared to stop when needed. If going downhill, yield to users going uphill. Be safe and courteous.

Revere the Resource: Practice leave no trace principles and leave the trail as good or better than you found it.

Avoid Spreading Weeds: Use weed free feed and check shoes, clothing and gear for seeds before leaving the trailhead.

Pets: Follow posted rules for where pets can and cannot be. Make sure they are under your control at all times and pick up their waste.

Be Informed: Know what uses are allowed on each trail and any local rules and regulations.

Before starting out, do warm-up exercises. Stretching gradually increases heart rate, temperature, and circulation to your muscles. Also, after a night's rest, your muscles need warming. Stretching gets the body going and increases your flexibility.

Start out slowly, gradually increasing your pace and distance traveled. Let the slowest person in your hiking, paddling, and biking or cross-country skiing party set the pace. This is especially important when children are a part of your group.

Plan the trip ahead of time and assign tasks that people enjoy. If someone doesn't cook, don't force them to. The goal is to have a good time outdoors.

Take turns leading the group and sharing decision-making responsibilities.

Hike, bike, or ski only on marked trails in wilderness areas unless bushwhacking is allowed and you have excellent navigation skills.

Hike and travel in groups as much as possible, especially during winter and in hazardous terrain. Leave your itinerary with a friend or family member and check in with them upon your return. Learn basic repair skills for changing a bike tire, fixing a backpack or mending a snowshoe. Remember to take repair kits on your trail.

Mountain weather is generally cooler, cloudier, and windier than in lowland areas. For every 1,000 feet of elevation, the temperature often drops three to five degrees. Thus, it's best to dress in layers. Polyester clothing worn closest to your skin will trap warm air next to the skin and transfer or wick body moisture away.

Wear sunglasses and a hat or visor when you hike, ski or paddle. Snow blindness, caused by the sun's glare on snow, can also be caused by sunlight reflecting off water and boulders. Keep your eyes and face covered especially during your first few days outdoors.

Bring sunscreen no matter the season. You can get painful sunburn even in subfreezing temperatures.

Bring a customized first aid kit tailored to your outing.

Develop an emergency plan before you start your trip. Leave your trip itinerary, including a time to expect you back, with someone you trust at home.

Make sure everyone knows what to do if they become lost or a medical emergency arises. Give children whistles with the instructions to "stop and blow" if they become lost.

Take frequent rests or vary your pace to recover from strenuous activity spurts. A steady pace will get you there with less discomfort than the sprint-and-catch-your-breath approach.

Drink plenty of water. Water is heavy to carry, but thirst on the trail is a hazard. Take a tip from athletes: before a hike, drink some water so you're well hydrated and energized. Never drink your total supply between refills.

Backcountry water supplies are unpredictable. It's better to arrive at a gushing stream with 1/3 quart of water left, than to arrive at an empty stream and have no water left at all. Treat or filter all natural water sources.

Pack carbohydrate-energy bars, granola, candy, or fruit. They provide an instant pick-me-up on the trail.

Give yourself about two hour's daylight to set up camp.

Many national parks and forests and many state parks prohibit dogs. Be sure to keep pets on leashes in restricted areas, especially in cattle and sheep country. Bring water for pets and make sure they have nametags. Watch for injuries to your dog's footpads in rocky areas, on ice or in extremely hot terrain.

Pay attention to local regulations, particularly concerning campfires. Check for campfire restrictions by contacting the closest Forest Service Office.

A high mountain lake surrounded by forested and rocky ridges.

You can stay water safe if you follow tips that include: Plan and prepare; Select the most appropriate activity that matches your skills and experience; Seek information before and when you arrive to the Forest about hazards and conditions; Follow the rules, regulations, and heed warnings; and Use sound judgement while recreating.

Every year, an average of 3,536 fatal unintentional drownings (non-boating related) occur in the U.S. — about ten deaths per day. Approximately 332 people die each year from drowning in boating-related incidents. About one in five people who die from drowning are children 14 and younger. For every child who dies from drowning, another five receive emergency department care for nonfatal submersion injuries.

Every pool, lake, river, stream, ocean and every warm summer day holds the possibility of fun summer experiences. All you need to add is your undivided attention. Whether a tiny trickle of a creek, enough to cool your toes, or the vast expanses of beaches, water provides an exciting element to outdoor recreation. Even the most seasoned of water enthusiasts can be surprised by changing water conditions. Enjoy your day, but remember these tips:

General Precautions

Never swim alone
Learn CPR and rescue techniques
Swim in areas supervised by a lifeguard
Don't push or jump on others
Don't dive in unfamiliar areas
Don't go in the water unless you know how to swim
Never drink alcohol when swimming; alcohol is involved in about half of all male teen drownings
Make sure the body of water matches your skill level; swimming in a pool is much different than swimming in a lake, river, or ocean where more strength is needed to handle currents

Rivers and Streams

Changing seasons contribute to rapid changes in rivers and streams. In summer, rivers and streams often swell from runoff caused by snowmelt. That also could mean powerful currents that can easily sweep you off your feet.

If you don't know how to swim, wear a life vest that meets U.S. Coast Guard requirements.
Avoid rock hopping. Stream polished rocks along the water's edge may be slippery when wet or dry.
If you choose to cross a stream by going through it, study the area first. Avoid deep and/or swift water.
When crossing on a natural bridge of rocks or logs, consider where you will land if you fall. Never cross above rapids or falls.
If you are crossing a stream, unbuckle your pack's waist strap so you can shed it if you fall to prevent being pulled under by its weight. Consider putting your pack in a waterproof bag, which becomes a floating device to help your head stay above water.
If you fall into fast-moving water, do not try to stand up. The force of the water will push you over and hold you under. Most drownings result from getting a leg or ankle caught in an underwater rock ledge, between boulders or snagged in tree limbs or other debris. Lay on your back with your feet pointing downstream and toes pointing up toward the surface. Always look downstream and be prepared to fend off rocks with your feet.

Waterfalls

Enjoy from a distance and heed posted warning signs.
Hazards include slippery rocks and surfaces from mist and algae.
Stay on established trails and enjoy the view from overlooks.
Don’t jump off of waterfalls or dive into waterfall pools. Unseen objects, such as logs and boulders, may be under the water’s surface.
Never swim or wade upstream near a waterfall, even if the water appears shallow and calm. The currents close to the falls could pull swimmers over the edge.

Lakes

Choose swimming areas carefully and swim only during low water conditions.
Always swim with a buddy and in supervised areas, preferably ones with a lifeguard on duty.
Do not dive into the water. Jumping from cliffs or bridges is dangerous due to shallow water, submerged rocks, trees, or other hazards.
Avoid drinking alcohol before or during swimming or boating. Avoid drinking alcohol while supervising children around water.
Always supervise children closely and do not engage in any other distracting activity while watching children in or around water.
Learn to swim. Enroll yourself and your children in swimming classes. However, don't consider your children to be “drown-proof” because you enrolled them in an infant water-proofing class or swimming class. A child who falls into water unexpectedly may panic and forget learned swimming skills.
Learn cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Because of the time it might take for emergency services to arrive, your CPR skills can make a difference in saving someone's life.
Use life jackets that meet U.S. Coast Guard requirements when boating, regardless of distance to be traveled, size of boat, or swimming ability of boaters.
Do not use air-filled or foam toys, such as water wings, noodles, or inner tubes, in place of life jackets. These are toys and are not designed to keep swimmers safe.
Know the local weather conditions and forecast before swimming or boating. Strong winds and thunderstorms with lightning strikes are dangerous to swimmers and boaters.

Coastal Beaches

Hazards include large unexpected waves, cold water and swift currents, and debris hazards. Additional hazards include sand cave-ins, unstable slopes, mud flats and high tides trapping beachcombers.
Know the tides so rising water doesn't trap you.
Check the forecast for high surf advisory before going to the beach.
Beware of the cold water, it can quickly sap your strength.
Observe the waves when arriving at the beach. Double the highest wave you see to estimate how high the waves might get during your visit.
Face the water when near the waves and always keep one eye on the water to detect large unexpected waves.
Wear a life jacket when fishing or tide pooling because these activities require you to be very near the surf with your attention diverted.
If caught in a rip current, swim parallel to the beach to get out of the current, then swim toward shore.
Keep a close watch on children even if they are far from the water. They can quickly enter the water and get in trouble when your attention is diverted for only a moment.
Don't go in the water after someone in trouble. Rescue from shore and get help.

Protect Yourself from Car Theft

As peaceful as the forest may seem, a few visitors may experience auto break-ins. The proximity of our forests to numerous urban areas and towns make us more susceptible to common crimes.

Always be aware, alert and cautious. Some visitors have different agendas, which may include drug production, theft, arson or illegal acts.
Lock your car. As simple as this seems, many people still forget.
Don’t leave your travel plans on the windshield of your car. Thieves use this "window of opportunity" to break in, since they know you may not be nearby. Leave your plans with the district office or someone at home, like a neighbor, relative or friend. Include what trails you plan to hike and an estimate of your return time.
Don’t leave valuables inside your car. If you must leave valuables, hide them from view or lock them in the trunk. Empty the glove compartment and leave it open to show that nothing is inside.
Don’t park your car with the trunk backed toward the woods. This provides cover for someone trying to break into your trunk. If your car has been vandalized, contact local law enforcement officials. Your information can provide critical tips to investigators.
Research your camping area. Read up about the camping area you will be visiting. Though rare, it is possible for valuable camping equipment to be stolen when left alone throughout the day. For your safety and reassurance, make sure you read and ask the ranger about area you will be staying beforehand so that you can better assess the risks.

Be Aware of Illegal Activity

Advance preparation can help ensure that outdoor activities are as safe and enjoyable as possible. However, it’s difficult to predict the behavior of other forest visitors. As is possible in any public place, visitors might encounter someone who is angry, intoxicated or armed. Being cautious of strangers is always appropriate. No place is immune from illegal activity. Suspicious behavior might lead to automobile break-ins, marijuana cultivation or attempted arson. If you witness or experience any suspicious activity, immediately call local law enforcement. Do not attempt to address the situation yourself. The safety of forest visitors is top priority. The U.S. Forest Service does not tolerate threats or acts of violence against visitors or employees.

Always be aware, alert and cautious. Some visitors have different agendas, which may include drug production, theft, arson or illegal acts.
Back away from any people who appear to be angry, intoxicated or otherwise out of control.
Keep children, pets and personal property away from anyone or any situation that appears to be suspicious. Caution is the best policy.
Notify law enforcement officials of any suspicious behavior or situation.
Marijuana plots and methamphetamine labs, while rare, could be found in remote locations. Persons responsible for illegal crops or labs are dangerous and should be avoided.
How to identify plots: A typical cultivation site consists of 1-2 camping/sleeping areas, 3-15 plots that are separated by a few yards or up to half a mile, and a trail system leading to their supply “trailheads.” The camping and sleeping areas may be spread over 1-2 acres, the “growing areas” 10- 20 acres, and the “constrained area” (including trailheads) up to 50 acres.
Chemicals used to grow and produce these illegal products can be highly combustible and pose considerable risk to people. Many are explosive or pose the risk of chemical burns if inhaled or if the material touches bare skin.
If you inadvertently come upon a suspicious site, leave the area immediately. Go to a safe place and call 911. Report the encounter to law enforcement authorities.

Learn more about Illegal Cannabis Cultivation on California National Forests

Most people are aware of winter's hazards. But it's easy to forget how wind, cold, snow, or whiteout can turn an outing into a tragedy. Knowledge of the area, weather, route, and the limitations of your body and equipment - plus a little common sense - can help ensure safe and enjoyable outings.

Visitors are encouraged to view the Recreate Responsibly Winter Toolkit, which provides resources on weather conditions, avalanche awareness, and Leave No Trace principles.

Before You Leave

Notify a responsible person of your planned route of travel. Mark it on a map. Give your planned time of departure and return. Be sure to check with that person when you get back. Get back before dark.

You must expect the unexpected and plan accordingly. Even if you are going out for just a few hours. Know ahead of time the location of the nearest telephone or ranger station in case an emergency does occur on your trip. You may want a GPS device, but those sometimes do not receive a signal or the battery fails. Cell phones also likely will not work because of a lack of signal.

Where to Go

Some National Forest System land is open for winter travel; however, some parts have restrictions. These restrictions include motorized vehicle closures, avalanche area closures, and hazardous roads. Specific winter information is available from Forest Offices.

Weather, Snow and Avalanche Information

Check local weather forecasts. Avalanches may occur at any time during the winter so call or listen to local avalanche advisories where available.

Backcountry users should take extra precautions, carry appropriate avalanche equipment, travel in groups if possible, and check the avalanche report before heading outside. Resources:

Advice on avalanche conditions is also available at local Forest Service Offices.

Driving Safely

Check road conditions, chain control, and potential road closures of your route. Don’t get lured into taking alternative routes around closures as travel apps and related online map services have likely not been updated to reflect the current situation and you may get lost or stuck. Recommended resource: QuickMap (ca.gov)

Be prepared – check your tires’ tread and pressure; top off windshield fluid; and carry tire chains, an ice scraper, an extra blanket and provisions in your car in case you become stuck or stranded on the roadside.

Clothing and Equipment to Take Along

Layers of clothing which can be adjusted to prevailing conditions are best. A good quality windbreaker jacket and wind pants are excellent. Avoid tight-fitting clothes and boots which may restrict circulation. Take extra socks and gloves or mittens, warm hat, matches in a waterproof container, candle, fire starter (000 steel wool works well when pulled apart), nylon cord, general purpose knife, high-energy food, plastic tarp, space blanket, signal mirror, first aid kit, wide tape for repairs, metal container for melting snow, map, compass, and hatchet.

Snowmobilers should be certain to have tools for emergency repairs, extra spark plugs, extra gas, emergency flares, and drive belt. Experienced snowmobilers always carry snowshoes (in case of equipment failure) as well as the normal emergency and survival gear for winter.

Food and Water

A good rule is "lightweight but loaded," meaning loaded with calories. Plan your meals to ensure a diet of high-energy foods.

Water is often difficult to find in winter. All that is available may be what you carry in containers or melt from snow. The body loses as much as 2 to 4 quarts of fluid per day under exertion. Replacement of fluid los is very important for maintaining physical condition. Eating snow provides only limited water (10 to 20 percent), drains energy, and cools the body temperature. Avoid melting snow by body contact. Travel equipped to melt snow. Save your energy.

Litter and Sanitation

Litter and debris can mar the quality of a recreation experience - particularly when viewed against a mantle of white snow. Help others enjoy winter travel in National Forests by carrying out what you carry in. Take food in easily compressed packages that require little space in your pack.

Avoid leaving human waste near any water course. If you are in a group, avoid concentrating wastes. Nature can assimilate only small quantities at a time.

On and Off the Trail

All winter travelers should:

Match trail difficulty and length of trip to your physical condition and ability. Be physically fit - Top physical condition may be required to walk out if equipment fails.
Know storm warning signs - Mountain weather is unpredictable. Pay attention to changing conditions.
Stay on safe routes and avoid avalanche terrain.
A list of marked cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails is usually available Forest Service offices.
Cross-country ski trails are not regularly packed or groomed. Stumps, rocks, and other obstructions are sometimes present. Ski under control.
Hitting the slopes? Please follow all safety guidelines. Resource: Ski Safety - Ski California - Avalanche Safety

Dogs can ruin ski tracks, especially those that have been groomed. For the benefit and enjoyment of others, consider leaving your pet at home. If you do take your dog, consider skiing in non-groomed or lightly-used areas.

Snowmobiling

Travel in a group using at least two machines. Avoid sudden dips (washouts) at stream crossings and (blowouts) around the base of trees.

Sharing Routes Safely

In some areas of the National Forests, those traveling by skis, snowshoes, and snowmobiles must share the same routes and areas. The following suggestions will help provide safe routes for everyone.

Operate snowmobiles at minimum speed near skiers or snowshoers. Travel slowly until well beyond those on foot. Snowmobilers should be able to stop within half of the visible distance ahead.

Skiers and snowshoers should realize that snowmobile operators generally can't hear other approaching trail users. On steep slopes snowmobilers are generally limited to the developed trail surface, so give them the right of way. Use common courtesy and respect so that all trail users can enjoy their winter travel.

Snowmobiles are not permitted on developed ski trails used for cross-country skiing. Restrictions are posted, but check with the local ranger for full information.

Maps

Some Forest offices have specific maps available for winter routes.

Be Cautious on Ice

Temperatures change daily. Areas that appear solid may quickly thaw and become impassible. Ice skating, fishing, or trekking on frozen lakes, ponds, rivers or reservoirs is not advised. Consider an indoor skating facility as a safer alternative.

Hypothermia

Be aware of the danger of hypothermia - subnormal temperature of the body. Lowering of internal temperature of the body leads to mental and physical collapse.

Hypothermia is caused by exposure to cold and it is aggravated by wet, wind, and exhaustion. It is the number one killer of recreationists.

Cold Kills in Two Distinct Steps:

The first step is exposure and exhaustion. The moment you begin to lose heat faster than your body produces it, you are undergoing exposure. Two things happen: You voluntarily exercise to stay warm, and your body makes involuntary adjustments to preserve normal temperature in the vital organs. Both responses drain your energy reserves. The only way to stop the drain is to reduce the degree of exposure.

The second stop is hypothermia. If exposure continues until your energy reserves are exhausted, cold reaches the brain, depriving you of judgment and reasoning power. You will not be aware that this is happening. This is hypothermia. You internal temperature is sliding downward. Without treatment, this slide leads to stupor, collapse, and death.

The time to prevent hypothermia is during the period of exposure and gradual exhaustion.

Most hypothermia cases develop in air temperatures between 30 and 50 degrees. Most recreationists simply can't believe such temperatures can be dangerous. They underestimate the danger of being wet at such temperatures - with fatal results.

Fifty degree [F] water is unbearably cold. The cold that kills is cold water running down neck and lets, cold water held against the body by sopping wet clothes, and cold water flushing body hear from the surface of the clothes. Don't ask "How cold is the air?" Ask instead, "How cold is the water against my body?"

Defense Against Hypothermia:

Stay Dry - Staying dry and maintaining body hear are the key to avoiding hypothermia. Wool has been the standard when staying warm and dry are required and is still a good choice. New synthetic materials also offer the advantages of being lightweight and fast drying if wet.

Dress in layers with lightweight undergarments (to wick moisture away from the skin) and then wool or fleece pile for insulating warmth. A tight weave water repellent wind breaker completes the three layer system for all weather conditions. Whether using wool or synthetic, layering your clothing will enable you to shed layers as you warm up or add them again as you cool down. Include a knit cap that can protect neck and chin. Cotton is useless when wet because it actually makes you colder.

Beware of the Wind - A slight breeze carries heat away from bare skin much faster than still air. Wind drives cold air under and through clothing. Wind refrigerates wet clothes by evaporating moisture from the surface. Wind multiplies the problem of staying dry. Choose rain clothes that are proof against wind-driven rain and cover head, neck, body, and legs. Ponchos are poor protection from the wind.

Use Your Clothes - Put on rain gear before you get wet. Put on wool clothes before you start shivering.

End Exposure - If you cannot stay dry and warm under existing weather conditions using the clothes you have with you, end exposure. Be smart enough to give up reaching the peak or getting the fish or whatever you had in mind.

Get Out of the Wind and Rain - Build a fire. Concentrate on making your camp or bivouac as secure and comfortable as possible. Never ignore shivering. Persistent or violent shivering is clear warning that you are on the verge of hypothermia. A storm proof tent gives best shelter. Take plastic sheeting and nylon twine with you for rigging additional foul-weather shelter.

Carry trail food - nuts, jerky, and candy - and keep nibbling during hypothermia weather. Take a gas stove or a plumber's candle, flammable paste, or other reliable fire starters.

Don't wait for an emergency. Use these items to avoid or minimize exposure. Take heed of "hypothermia weather." Watch carefully for warning symptoms.

Prevent Exhaustion - Make camp while you still have a reserve of energy. Allow for the fact that exposure greatly reduces your normal endurance.

Be aware that exercise drains energy reserves. If exhaustion forces you to stop, however briefly, your body hear production instantly drops 50 percent or more. Violent incapacitating shivering may begin immediately and you may slip into hypothermia in a matter of minutes.

Appoint a Foul Weather Leader - make the best protected member of your party responsible for calling a halt before the least protected member becomes exhausted or goes into violent shivering.

Symptoms - If your party is exposed to wind, cold, and wet, think hypothermia. Watch yourself and others for symptoms.

Uncontrollable fits of shivering
Vague, slow, slurred speech.
memory lapses, incoherence.
Immobile, fumbling hands.
Frequent stumbling. Lurching gait
Drowsiness - to sleep is to die.
Apparent exhaustion, inability to get up after a rest.

Treatment for Hypothermia

The victim may deny he/she is in trouble. Believe the symptoms, not the victim. Even mild symptoms demand immediate, drastic treatment.

Get the victim out of the wind and rain. Strip off all wet clothes. if the victim is only mildly impaired, give warm drinks. Get the victim into warm clothes and a warm sleeping bag. Well-wrapped, warm (not hot) rocks or canteens will hasten recovery.

If the victim is semiconscious or worse, try to keep him/her awake. Give warm drinks. Leave victim stripped. Put the victim in a sleeping bag with another person - also stripped.

If you have a double bag, put the victim between two warm donors. Skin-to-skin contact is the most effective treatment.

Build a fire to warm the camp.

Other Potential Dangers
Wind Chill
Wind temperature, and moisture are factors which can greatly affect the safety of a winter traveler. Each contributes to the loss of body heat. The "wind chill" chart illustrates the effect of wind and temperature on a dry, properly clothed temperature on a dry, properly clothed person. If clothing is wet from perspiration or precipitation, the net effect of wind and temperature is much greater.

Frostbite

Frostbite is caused by exposure of inadequately protected flesh to subfreezing temperatures. Tissue damage is caused by the reduced blood flow to the extremities as opposed to hypothermia, which causes lowering of the body's rate of metabolism.

Symptoms - Loss of feeling and a dead-white appearance.
Treatment - Restore body temperature as rapidly as possible, preferably by immersion in a water bath of less than 110 degrees temperature or by other means. If it is necessary to continue moving, the affected part should be kept covered and the victim moved to a location where effective treatment and vehicle evacuation can be obtained.
Prevention - Party members should periodically observe their companions, especially nose and cheeks, for signs of frostbite. Snowmobilers, due to their speed of travel, are particularly susceptible to frostbite.

Dehydration

An adult, at rest, requires 2 quarts of water daily. Up to 4 quarts are required for strenuous activity. There is a 25 percent loss of stamina when an adult loses 1.5 quarts of water. Avoid dehydration - simply drink as often as you feel thirsty.

Altitude Sickness

At 10,000 feet, air contains only two-thirds of the volume of oxygen that it does at sea level. In addition, the higher air pressure at sea level easily forces the available oxygen through the thin lining of the lungs into the bloodstream. At higher elevations there is less air pressure and the available oxygen is not so easily forced through the lung walls.

Symptoms - Listlessness, loss of appetite, weakness, apathy, nausea, dizziness, and drowsiness.
Treatment - Stop and rest, breathe deeply a few times, obtain nourishment from simple sugar like candy or fruit juices. Travel to lower elevations.
Prevention - Keep in good physical condition and eat a well-balanced diet. Avoid sudden trips to high altitudes which involve immediate physical exercise.

Hyperventilation

Symptoms - This reaction to altitude is caused by too rapid breathing and decrease of the carbon dioxide level in the blood, causing a lightheadedness and cold feeling. Victims are apprehensive and excited.
Treatment - Calm the victim, have him/her relax and breathe into a glove, bag, or hat until normal breathing is restored.
Prevention - Keep in good physical condition and eat a well-balanced diet. Avoid sudden trips to high altitudes which involve immediate physical exercise.

Lost or Injured

Avoid becoming lost by taking a good map. Learn to use a compass and believe it. Check weather forecasts and avoid storms. It is easy to become disoriented in the whiteouts of winter or when physically exhausted.

If you are lost, injured, or your equipment failed - KEEP CALM.

Decide on a plan. Trust your compass. Backtrack if possible, but if it's not practical, remain in place. Stay together if possible. If not, send at least two people for help.

Don't abandon your snowshoes or skis. Build a fire and shelter. Stay warm. Mark your base camp so it is visible from the air.

Distress Signals - Three smokes, three blasts of a whistle, three shouts, three flashes of light, three of anything that will attract attention.

Ground to Air Signals - Visible emergency signals are easily made in large open areas. SOS can be stamped in snowfields or grassy meadows. Brush piles or evergreen boughs can also be used. The graphic lists the tile emergency codes for ground to air signals.

Overdue Party

When someone is overdue - KEEP CALM. Notify the County Sheriff in the trip area. They will take steps to alert or activate the local search and rescue organization. if the missing person returns later, be sure to advise the Sheriff.

Last updated October 23, 2026

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