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Safety Tips & Resources

flooding

Flash flooding on the San Rafael Swell

The Emery County Search And Rescue Team encourages everyone to be prepared when they venture into the outdoors. Part of this preparation includes ensuring that you have received a basic education about your adventure.

Conditions in Emery County can be unpredictable. Temperatures in mountain elevations can drop drastically, especially after dark. Flash flooding can occur on the desert making slot canyons deadly.

Before you begin to enjoy the outdoors please take a few minutes and review some common sense suggestions. These tips will be beneficial anywhere you might travel.

  Resources

First Aid

First Aid

First Aid

First Aid

  Safety Tips

  • Never go alone
  • Leave a plan
    Tell relatives or friends your destination and expected time of return. Don't change your route. If you do not return on schedule and your relatives or friends notify the authorities, the search and rescue effort will begin where it is presumed you are located. If you change your route, you may delay your rescue and place the search and rescue personnel in danger.
  • Take the 10 essentials
    A day pack or fanny pack will hold these.
    1. Map of the area
    2. First aid kit
    3. GPS or compass
    4. Proper clothing
      jacket, pants, hat (dress for the changing weather)
    5. Snacks, food and water
    6. Flashlight
    7. Matches / fire starter
    8. Whistle
    9. Rain gear
      jacket and pants
    10. Pocket knife
  • Check the weather
    All four seasons in Utah present wonderful outdoor activities. Please respect the wilderness and be prepared while enjoying them. Find local weather reports at The Weather Channel - Emery County Weather and prepare for extreme conditions.
  • Dress in Layers
    You can take away or add as needed. The weather can change quickly, especially at dark.
  • Be realistic about your physical condition
    Check with your doctor to see if there would be any concerns about strenuous exercise.
  • Don't be afraid to turn back
    While the excitement of reaching a goal carries a strong persuasive emotion, ambition is a bad reason to place yourself and others in a dangerous situation. Reasons to turn back may include:
    • Sudden change in the weather
    • Unexpected conditions – high water, icy conditions, etc.
    • Fatigue – general rule your pace should be set by the slowest hiker. If that hiker is unable to continue, everyone turns back.
    • Running out of daylight.
  • Be aware of injuries
    Injuries can occur just a few feet from the trailhead or miles into the trail. Being prepared to rescue yourself can also assist in helping others who may be injured who are with you. Know the terrain, have the proper gear, and learn basic first aid. If you cannot rescue yourself - STOP! Stay put and stay warm and protect yourself from the elements. Drink water and stay hydrated. Put on bright clothing. Blow your whistle at regular intervals.
  • Use Common sense
    Using common sense while enjoying any wilderness is your best way to avoid an unpleasant outing.