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
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
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