Outdoor Recreation

Bicycling, boating, horseback riding, fishing, and hiking rate just behind skiing among the top activities related to outdoor recreation deaths in Colorado. Our altitude, intense sun, and rapidly changing weather add to the potential risks outdoors. Preparedness and common sense can help ensure safety while enjoying our many parks, trails, open spaces and outdoor facilities.

Before your outdoor adventure

Plan to travel with a companion, and share your plan. You don’t want to be by yourself in case of an emergency. Leave a copy of your itinerary with a responsible person. Include such details as the make, year, and license plate of your car, the equipment you’re bringing, the weather you’ve anticipated, and when you plan to return. If you’ll be entering a remote area, your group should have a minimum of four people; this way, if one is hurt, another can stay with the victim while two go for help. Pack the first aid kit. Be sure your first aid supplies are updated and include supplies for any outdoor needs as well as injuries. Include sunscreen and insect repellent. Consider additional emergency supplies you may need: map, compass, knife, personal shelter, safety whistle… Be in good physical condition. Set a comfortable pace as you hike. A group trip should be designed for the weakest member of the group. If you have any medical conditions, discuss your plans with your health care provider and get approval before departing. Learn outdoor skills and first aid. Make sure you have the skills you need for your camping or hiking adventure. You may need to know how to read a compass, erect a temporary shelter, or give first aid. Practice your skills in advance. Develop an emergency plan. Make sure everyone knows what to do if they become lost or a medical emergency arises. Give children whistles with the instructions to “stop and blow” if they become lost. Visit the website for the place you will visit. Pay attention to local regulations, particularly concerning campfires, trail closures, pet restrictions, etc. Check the forecast, and the altitude. Mountain weather is generally cooler, cloudier, and windier than in lowland areas. For every 1,000 feet of elevation, the temperature often drops three to five degrees. Thus, it’s best to plan to dress in layers. Polyester clothing worn closest to your skin will trap warm air next to the skin and transfer or wick body moisture away. Warm up. Stretching before you begin trekking gradually increases heart rate, temperature and circulation to your muscles and prevents injury.

El Paso County Search and Rescue (EPCSAR)

El Paso County Search and Rescue (EPCSAR) is a mountain search and rescue unit dedicated to saving lives through search, rescue, and mountain safety education. They provide services primarily in El Paso County and also respond to requests from other areas. The team specializes in operations involving

Outdoor Safety Tips

• Let somebody know where you will be and when you expect to return.

• Include two or more companions in outdoor activities.

• Familiarize yourself with the route you are taking and the general area you will be using.

• Review weather reports for your destination and watch the weather for approaching storms.

• Ensure you have up-to-date maps for the location you will be using.

• Stay on the trail to avoid getting lost.

• If you get lost, stay where you are and let searchers find you.

• Carry plenty of fresh water and avoid drinking from lakes or streams whenever possible.

• Carry enough food or snacks to last twice as long as you plan to be gone.

• Dress appropriately and be prepared for any sudden change in the weather.

• Wear bright clothing to increase your visibility.

• Avoid wearing gray, brown, tan, or white clothing when hiking in hunting areas.

• Know your physical limits for hiking and biking.