Follow these tips to recreate safely this summer

While we love our search and rescue partners, we all agree that it's better to NOT need them this summer. Let's do our part to lighten the load for search and rescue teams with the following safety tips.

Follow these tips to recreate safely this summer:

• Stay on trail. Going off trail or following social trails, unmarked paths, increases the risk of getting lost or injured. It also increases the risk of fatal falls.
• Pack the 10 Essentials to be prepared for the conditions
• Have an emergency kit and cell phone charger in your vehicle.
• Know the trail and conditions – research the trail thoroughly and get accurate directions to the trailhead. Check weather and the park webpage for alerts.
• Check road conditions on Tripcheck.com or call 511.
• Know campfire restrictions as well as public fire restrictions.
• Download maps to a cell phone or print them in case there is no cell service.
• Make a plan and tell someone– make sure they know your route, the exact trail name, possible side destinations and when you plan to leave and return. This information is vital for search and rescue if they need to come looking for you.
• Practice situational awareness – stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on trail markers and landmarks so you can provide those details in an emergency. (This includes Oregon Beach Access Numbers on the coast).
• Listen to your body – know your limits when selecting hikes and when you’re on the trail.
• Watch for hazards – if you see signs of bad weather, wildfires, dangerous wildlife activity or other potential hazards, adjust your plans. Never feel bad about turning around early. Have a plan B.
• Respect trail closures – safety signs and barriers. They are placed there for your safety. Disregarding them can have deadly consequences.
• Exercise caution when crossing streams or navigating steep terrain – never climb on logs or turn your back on the ocean.
• Stay in touch – There might not be cell coverage and reception on the trail. If you are using your cell phone, keep the battery fully charged and switch to airplane mode to conserve battery until you need it.
• Enable Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEA) on cell phones.
• Consider a personal locator beacon (PLB) like InReach or SPOTS, if you need to call for help.
• Prepare for the weather – layer up, wear appropriate footwear for the terrain and carry an emergency blanket.
• Bring sun protection and lots of water of hot days – Tips for hot-weather hiking.
• Practice Boating and Water Safety. Before you go out, plan ahead and check water levels and tide information, obstructions, local regulations and boating access for put in’s and take out locations. The Oregon State Marine Board’s (OSMB) website has planning resources for every boat type, including what equipment to carry.