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Jackson Hole > Grand Teton National Park > Safety Tips For Grand Teton National Park

Safety Tips For Grand Teton National Park

Stop by a visitor center to check current information about park conditions. Rangers are available to answer questions and provide information regarding all aspects of safely visiting Grand Teton National Park.

Safe Driving

• always wear your seat belt
• obey posted speed limits
• check road conditions before you leave on a trip
• be prepared for changing weather conditions
• watch for animals on the road, especially in evening and morning

Viewing Wildlife Safely

• maintain a distance of at least 300 feet from large animals
• never put yourself between an adult animal and its offspring
• don't feed any wild animal
• don't approach or chase wildlife

Hiking Safely in the Mountains

• hiking alone is not recommended
• stay on established trails for your own safety and to prevent erosion
  horses have the right of way; step off the trail and remain quiet while they pass
• take a map, drinking water, and extra clothing
• be prepared with appropriate equipment (ice ax, hiking boots, and crampons)
• tell someone where you are going and when you expect to return
• practice responsible bear etiquette while traveling through the park; do not leave food or backpacks unattended
• avoid surprising bears and other wildlife by making noise while hiking
• do not run from bears, do not drop your pack if a bear charges you
• check at visitor centers for complete bear safety information

Climbing Safety

• visit the Jenny Lake Ranger Station to speak to a climbing ranger about weather and route conditions
• leave an agenda with friends or family
• solo climbing and backcountry travel is not recommended
• be prepared with appropriate equipment such as an ice ax, mountaineering boots, and crampons

Boating Safety

• wear a lifejacket at all times
• check bulletin boards for flow rates and caution areas
• even boaters frequently floating the Snake should check conditions before every trip, as the river can change hourly
• take an extra paddle or oar, a waterproof container with extra clothes, a first aid kit, and a waste receptacle
• inflatable boats should have an air pump, bucket for bailing, and patch kit
• swimming in the river is not recommended
• for information on Snake River flows, call 1-800-658-5771
• download the Boating brochure and/or Floating brochure
• for information on boating outside the park contact the Jackson Hole Chamber of Commerce at 307-733-3316

Safe Biking

• wear a helmet at all times
• ride bicycles only on roadways, not on trails
• ride on the right side of the road in single file
• obey the rules of the road at all times
• use hand signals to communicate with other drivers

Lightning Safety

• afternoon storms are common in summer, get to a safe place before storms hit
• avoid mountain tops, ridges, open areas, and lone trees; forested areas with trees of similar height are safer
• do not stand on tree roots
• if boating, get off the lake
• The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides a variety of material and links through their website at (http://www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/outdoors.htm). This site contains critical lightning safety and medical information.

Water Warning

• Giardia, Camphylobacter, and other harmful bacteria may be transmitted through untreated water
• if you use water from lakes or streams, boil 3-5 minutes to kill microorganisms or filter with an approved device

Prevent Human-Caused Fires

• build campfires only in designated areas, monitor them, and make sure they are properly extinguished
• grind out cigarettes, cigars, or pipe tobacco, then properly dispose of them
• ashtrays should be used in vehicles and should never be emptied on the ground
• fireworks and other pyrotechnic devices are prohibited at all times in the park
• obey posted fire restrictions

A Special Message about Backcountry Safety
Travel in Grand Teton's backcountry has inherent risks; hikers assume complete responsibility for their own safety. Rescue is not a certainty. Your safety depends on your own good judgment, adequate preparation, and constant attention. Backcountry users should be in good physical condition and should be prepared to survive on their own. Appropriate equipment and the knowledge of how to use it are essential for a safe trip. Your safety is your responsibility.

If You Get Lost

• stay calm and stay put...you will be found sooner
• stay in a clearing or large outcropping where you will be most visible
• attract searchers by making noise and signaling with colorful clothing or a mirror
• if someone is injured, provide whatever treatment you can
• if possible, do not leave the injured party alone
• send for help with the exact location marked on a map, description of injuries, list of equipment , and treatment given