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September 22, 2006
Concord, New Hampshire - The recent rescue of four unprepared
hikers from the summit of Mt. Washington is a sobering reminder of
the importance of refreshing yourself on safe hiking principles
before heading out on the trail this time of year. Dressed only for
summer temperatures, and setting out late in the day for a difficult
hike, these hikers were unprepared for the winter conditions they
encountered at the higher altitudes of the summit. Their second
mistake: they failed to turn back when they ran into trouble. One of
the hikers remains hospitalized in serious condition suffering from
severe hypothermia. The hikers, who are from Canada, found some
shelter when they broke into one of the summit buildings. "Hikers,
especially on Mt. Washington, should never count on buildings being
open to provide a safe haven - or assume that staff will be around
to help you get back down," said New Hampshire Fish and Game
Department Lt. Todd Bogardus, who coordinates the hikeSafe
initiative.
"It's a beautiful time of year to hike in New Hampshire, with crisp
air, colorful foliage and glimpses of wildlife preparing for
winter," said Bogardus. "But hikers must be equipped with gear and
extra warm clothing this time of year. You should be prepared for
winter-like conditions, such as snow, high winds, rain and exposure
to extreme weather at the higher summits."
Bogardus also cautions that because the days are growing shorter,
night can fall quickly. Hikers should prepare for being caught out
after dark -- carry a flashlight or headlamp, even if you're not
planning to stay out late. Also, rime ice at higher altitudes can
obscure signs, so hikers should be equipped with a map and compass
and know how to use them. Hunting seasons are already underway in
New Hampshire, so it's a good idea to wear bright colors such as red
or orange when out on the trails. Watch your step, because wet
autumn leaves can be very slick, and when on the trail, always stay
together as a group. Before you head out, be sure to tell someone
where you're going and how long you'll be gone.
"The weather is extremely unpredictable this time of year, so we
encourage people to be prepared with the right knowledge and gear to
have a fun time, safely. If you do experience unexpected conditions
that affect your hike, like fatigue or weather changes, be
responsible and turn back -- the mountains will be there another
day," says Bogardus. He recommends carrying the "Ten Essentials" on
every trip: map and compass, warm clothing (including hat and
mittens), extra food and water, flashlight or headlamp, matches/firestarters,
first aid kit, whistle, rain/wind gear and a pocket knife.
As you plan your fall hiking, visit
www.hikesafe.com for more safe
hiking tips, plus links to websites like the Mt. Washington
Observatory for weather updates and other information to help plan
your trip. Enjoy the fall, review the hiker responsibility code, and
hikeSafe!Hiker Responsibility Code
You are responsible for yourself, so be prepared:
● With knowledge and gear. Become self-reliant by learning about the
terrain, conditions, local weather and your equipment before you
start.
● To leave your plans. Tell someone where you are going, the trails
you are hiking, when you'll return and your emergency plans.
● To stay together. When you start as a group, hike as a group, end as
a group. Pace your hike to the slowest person.
● To turn back. Weather changes quickly in the mountains. Fatigue and
unexpected conditions can also affect your hike. Know your
limitations and when to postpone your hike. The mountains will be
there another day.
● For emergencies, even if you are headed out for just an hour. An
injury, severe weather or a wrong turn could become life
threatening. Don't assume you will be rescued; know how to rescue
yourself.
● To share the hiker code with others.
HikeSafe -- There and Back -- It's Your Responsibility!
The hikeSafe educational initiative is a result of a partnership
between New Hampshire Fish and Game and White Mountain National
Forest. It was designed to help reduce the numbers of search and
rescue incidents and emergencies by educating outdoor users on
proper preparation.
For more information about hikeSafe, visit
www.hikesafe.com
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