Safety

Dress for the weather, which can be snowy and below freezing or over 100 F and extremely dry in the summer.

NPS

 

How to Have a Safe Visit to Chiricahua National Monument

• Check the weather.
• Have a plan, and stick to it. Leave your itinerary with someone.
• Have a specific destination or turn-around time.
• If hiking in a group, stay together.
• If hiking alone, leave a note on your car with expected date and time of return.
• Pace yourself, and know your own limits.
• Bring the right gear.
• Drink before you are thirsty.
• If nauseous, dizzy, cold, or exhausted: eat, drink, rest, and shelter from the heat or cold.

Be Aware:

• The altitude and elevation changes can make any length of hike more difficult.
• There is little to no cell phone reception in the area. Do not rely on this as a rescue tool, and if you do get cell reception, response time can be hours.
• Know the vehicle length restrictions and where you can go.
• Keep a respectful distance from all wild animals, and do not harass or antagonize snakes or other creatures.

10 Essentials to Bring on Adventures:

• Water: drink at least 1 quart/hour, and electrolyte replacements, especially in the summer. Avoid alcohol.
• Food: eat plenty of salty snacks and carbohydrates.
• First Aid Kit: bandaids, antiseptic, moleskin, emergency blanket, etc.
• Map: while trails are well-marked, maps help you know where you are.
• Compass: useful for navigation, even on trails.
• Flashlights: with spare batteries, even if you plan to be back before dark.
• Pocket Knife: for first aid use and other applications.
• Hat/Sunscreen: to protect your head and skin.
• Whistle/Signal Mirror: whistle three (3) short blasts in case of emergency.
• Weather Appropriate Clothing: layers for rain, cold, or sun, and sturdy hiking shoes.
• Hiking Poles: useful when going up or down steep trails.

 

Rabies

 

 

Hiking in the Heat

 

• Bring & DRINK more water than usual, 1-2 liters/quarts per hour  • drink electrolyte replacements/sports drinks and eat salty snacks to replace essential minerals lost by sweating • use sunscreen 30 SPF or higher and reapply often  • wear a hat and light-colored clothes, consider wearing long sleeves • check weather forecast  • share your plans  • don’t forget the map
Headache, nausea, weakness, and muscle cramping are symptoms that your body needs fluids. Heat illness can be fatal.

NPS

 

What Can You Do When Exploring Near the Border?
Be Aware, Be Safe

Remember that cell phone service is usually out of range within park boundaries.

Know where you are at all times, follow good safety procedures, and use common sense when making decisions.

Do not pick up hitch-hikers.

Keep valuables, including spare change, out of sight, and lock your vehicle.

Avoid traveling on well-used but unofficial "trails."

Avoid hiking in areas of major border activity.

People in distress may ask for food, water, or other assistance. It is recommended that you do not make contact. Report the location of the distressed people to the visitor center, other park staff, or the Border Patrol.

Report ANY suspicious behavior to park staff or Border Patrol. Please do not contact suspicious persons, contact a Ranger for assistance.