Rules to play Hiking
21. Safe Hiking
We want you to be safe on the trails! The N.H. Fish and Game Department and the White Mountain National Forest are partners in a mountain safety education program called hikeSafe to help get the word out on what hikers need to know.
As part of this program, the Hiker Responsibility Code is posted on hikeSafe signs at all major trailheads in New Hampshire. The code applies to all hikers, from beginners on a short hike to experienced outdoor enthusiasts embarking on an expedition. Please practice the elements of the code and share the code with fellow trekkers. This will help increase responsibility and reduce the need for Search and Rescue efforts.
As part of this program, the Hiker Responsibility Code is posted on hikeSafe signs at all major trailheads in New Hampshire. The code applies to all hikers, from beginners on a short hike to experienced outdoor enthusiasts embarking on an expedition. Please practice the elements of the code and share the code with fellow trekkers. This will help increase responsibility and reduce the need for Search and Rescue efforts.
22. During the Hike
Preparing for a hiking trip well beforehand is the most important step for hikers. When they travel into unknown territories, they should know exactly what they are getting themselves into and take the highest precautions. Hikers are encouraged to have companions since they will be traveling a long distance on foot and the outdoors will make them very open to harm. One tip is that hikers who plan to camp should not do so within a halfmile of a road or tell strangers where they intend to travel. Also, hikers should remain on marked trails so they can reduce their chances of getting lost. Evidently, adventurers must follow their instincts and use their best judgment.
23. S T O P
STOP Take a deep breath, sit down if possible, calm yourself and recognize that whatever has happened to get you here is past and cannot be undone. You are now in a survival situation.
THINK Your most important asset is your brain. Use it! Don't Panic! Think first, so you have no regrets. Move with deliberate care. Take no action, even a footstep, until you have thought it through.
OBSERVE Look around you. Assess your situation and options. Take stock of your supplies, equipment, surroundings and the capabilities of the group.
PLAN Prioritize your immediate needs and develop a plan to systematically deal with the emergency. Make a plan. Follow your plan. Adjust your plan only as necessary to deal with changing circumstances.
