Outdoor Safety Tips from Jackson County, OR Sheriff's Office

5179 CRATER LAKE HWY • CENTRAL POINT, OR
Emergency: 911 | REPORT A CRIME

March 23, 2023

You are here : >

Outdoor Safety

Lakes and Rivers

Always wear a life jacket while in a boat and while skiing, even if you’re a good swimmer.
Don’t drink alcohol while swimming, boating, or water skiing.
Select the class of river according to your skill level.
Do not raft alone.
Do not raft near dams or outlets.
Stay alert to stumps, snags, and other objects that could pose a potential hazard, particularly in swift water.
Keep a lookout for floating debris, downed or fallen trees, and in-stream objects as these can cause a serious threat.
Look for a V-shaped pattern on the surface of the water. Often, this wrinkled water signals the presence of potentially dangerous objects below the surface.
If you capsize in swift water, stay with your boat, float feet-first downstream on your back until you can swim to shore.
Have an emergency plan of what to do and where to go in case of an emergency.
If not familiar with the river, ask for advice from a knowledgeable guide.

Hikers and Backpackers

Always hike or pack in groups.
Stay on the trail, if there is one.
Carry plenty of water and make frequent stops to drink.
Carry adequate high-nutrition food.
Outdoor necessities include a compass, first aid kit, a whistle and mirror for signaling, space blanket, and a detailed map of the area.
Familiarize yourself with the area before you enter, and take someone with you who knows the area.
Always be specific with friends or relatives about your planned route and stick to it.
If you get lost…stay put! Especially at night. Stationary people are much easier to find.

Hunters

Be specific about your hunt area and boundaries. Tell somebody where you are going and how long you will be gone.
Prearrange with friends or relatives what time and day you plan to return.
Wear the approved clothing – bright orange colors which can easily be seen.
Carry the same supplies and gear as for hikers.
Hunting in rugged terrain is strenuous work. Know your physical limits.

Winter Recreation

The winter outdoors can provide a wonderful experience, but it also demands respect. Following the below advice can help ensure your trip is safe and enjoyable.

Never travel alone.
Always let someone know where your group is going and when you’re to return.
Be aware of current and forecast weather and avalanche conditions.
Realize that weather and avalanche conditions can change unexpectedly.
Individually equip and train all members of your group with an avalanche beacon, shovel, and probe pole.
All should wear proper winter clothing, such as wool or a synthetic fiber.
Everyone should carry a pack with the survival gear.
Stop and think about safety if your trip appears hazardous at any time, to anyone, in your group.
Be prepared to turn back if conditions or circumstances take a turn for the worst.