CONTACT:
Lt. Todd Bogardus: (603) 744-5470 or (603) 271-3361
Rebecca Oreskes: (603) 466-2713
September 22, 2006
Close Call for Hikers Is Reminder
to Hike Safely this Autumn
CONCORD, N.H. - 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, or contact Lt. Todd Bogardus of N.H. Fish and Game, (603) 744-5470; or Rebecca Oreskes of the White Mountain National Forest, (603) 466-2713 x212.
- ### -
