Be prepared

Parks and natural areas may present hazards for the unprepared visitor. There are things you can do to reduce the risk of injury during a visit.

• Look and listen! Maintain awareness of your surroundings and avoid distraction through use of headphones. 
• Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return. 
• Don’t venture out alone – bring a friend! 
• Bring a snack, water and a flashlight on all outings. 
• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear; be prepared for changing conditions. 
• Check park information kiosks for additional safety information and maps. 
• Do not use parks at night when they are closed to the public. 
• Know your limits and allow sufficient time to return before dark. 
• If you become lost, stay where you are. Make your location as visible as you can and wait for help. 
• If you have a mobile phone, bring it with you. While coverage is not available in all areas, mobile phones left on are often helpful in recovering lost or injured visitors. 
• Obey all signs and enjoy your visit.

Wildlife

We share the parks with many different animals. Even small, seemingly harmless animals can be aggressive.

• Do not feed wildlife, either by hand or by leaving food behind. 
• Give animals plenty of space and leave them alone. Observe them from a safe distance and discourage them from coming closer. 
• If you see a bear, remain calm and back away while speaking in a normal, non-threatening voice. 
• Avoid behaviour that could be interpreted as aggressive: don’t make direct eye contact, shout or throw things at an animal that is not behaving aggressively. 
• When using trails with few other people around, warn animals of your presence by talking, clapping or making noise.