Safety

Drink plenty of water: Drink at least one gallon (4 liters) of water per day to replace loss from sweat, more if you are active. Be aware of balancing fluid and electrolyte levels.

Avoid hiking in the heat: Do not hike in the low elevations when temperatures are hot. The mountains are cooler in summer, but can have snow and ice in winter.

Travel prepared to survive: Stay on paved roads in summer. If your car breaks down, stay with it until help comes. Carry extra drinking water in your car in case of emergency.

Watch for signs of trouble: If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or a headache, get out of the sun immediately and drink water or sports drinks. Dampen clothing to lower body temperature. Be alert for symptoms in others.

The main cause of death in Death Valley: More people die in single-car accidents than by any other means. To avoid an accident, follow the speed limits, shift to a lower gear on steep downhill grades, and wear your seatbelt.

Dangerous Animals: Never place your hands or feet where you cannot see first. Rattlesnakes, scorpions, or black widow spiders may be sheltered there.

Hantavirus--a potentially fatal respiratory disease--is spread through contact with infected rodents or their urine and droppings. Although no cases have been reported in Death Valley, the virus has been found in deer mice and cactus mice here. Use caution in rodent infested locations such as cabins and mine structures.

Flash Floods: Avoid canyons during rain storms and be prepared to move to higher ground. While driving, be alert for water running in washes and across road dips.

Mine Hazards: Do not enter mine tunnels or shafts. Mines may be unstable, have hidden shafts, pockets of bad air, and poisonous gas.

Tailings Pile Hazards: Do not touch mine tailings. Tailings often contain high concentrations of toxic metals and other chemicals.

Backcountry Travel: Hikers, backpackers and drivers need to be self reliant and well prepared. Always plan ahead, carry detailed maps, and let someone know your plans. Backpackers should obtain a free backcountry permit online or from any visitor center. Backcountry driving on Death Valley's dirt roads requires a vehicle with high clearance, heavy-duty tires, and often 4-wheel drive. Driving off designated roads is prohibited in the park.

Illegal Marijuana Cultivation Sites have been found in remote backcountry areas of Death Valley National Park. Learn to recognize and avoid these potentially dangerous areas. If you find signs of cultivation:

1. Get out immediately! Do not linger to take photos or coordinates.
2. Go back the way you came. You've already established that the route is safe.
3. Make as little noise as possible. If the garden is occupied, they may not be aware of you.
4. Get to a safe location. Run, walk, crawl or hide... just make yourself safe.
5. Notify FICC Dispatch at [phone], [phone], or [phone].
6. Be prepared to provide your exact location. Coordinates are great but a physical description will do.
7. Get to your vehicle if possible If you can, drive away.

In Case of Emergency: Dial 911 from any telephone or cell phone. Cell phones may not work in many parts of the park. Do not depend on them.