Be prepared
Regional Parks and natural areas may present hazards for the unprepared visitor. There are things you can do to reduce the risk of injury during a visit.
- Look and listen! Maintain awareness of your surroundings and avoid distraction through use of headphones.
- Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
- Don’t venture out alone – bring a friend!
- Bring a snack, water and a flashlight on all outings.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear; be prepared for changing conditions.
- Check park information kiosks for additional safety information and maps.
- Do not use parks at night when they are closed to the public.
- Know your limits and allow sufficient time to return before dark.
- If you become lost, stay where you are. Make your location as visible as you can and wait for help.
- If you have a mobile phone, bring it with you. While coverage is not available in all areas, mobile phones left on are often helpful in recovering lost or injured visitors.
- Obey all signs and enjoy your visit.
Wildlife
We share regional parks with many different animals. Even small, seemingly harmless animals can be aggressive.
- Do not feed wildlife, either by hand or by leaving food behind.
- Give animals plenty of space and leave them alone. Observe them from a safe distance and discourage them from coming closer.
- If you see a bear, remain calm and back away while speaking in a normal, non-threatening voice.
- Avoid behaviour that could be interpreted as aggressive: don’t make direct eye contact, shout or throw things at an animal that is not behaving aggressively.
- When using trails with few other people around, warn animals of your presence by talking, clapping or making noise.