STATE OF VERMONT

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

VERMONT STATE POLICE

 

PRESS RELEASE

HIKER SAFETY

 

October 12, 2017 / Waterbury VT – As summer departs and the weather cools this fall, the Vermont State Police and Department of Public Safety would like to remind those heading out onto Vermont’s hiking trails of the ever changing conditions a hiker may encounter this time of year.  As you follow trails into the mountains, perhaps for a better view of Vermont’s spectacular foliage, you can find yourself hiking in cold conditions despite warmer weather at the trailhead. Fall rain at lower elevations can turn into a wintry mix of snow, sleet and freezing rain in the hills, and frosty mornings can mean icy trails at higher elevations. Conditions on the trails above are typically much colder and windy than below, allowing for potential hypothermia in individuals who are unprepared.

 

If hiking at higher elevations, it’s important that hikers now prepare for potential winter-like conditions. Waterproof boots (not sneakers) with traction devices, extra layers of warm clothes, a headlamp, map and compass may become necessary for a safe and successful hike. Consider turning around if you are not properly equipped or if travel and route finding becomes difficult.

 

Neil Van Dyke, Search and Rescue Coordinator for the Vermont Dept. of Public Safety reports that there have already been several search and rescue incidents this fall involving hikers who were not properly prepared for the conditions they found at higher elevations. Hikers should get an early start and allow plenty of time, as the days are getting shorter.  Last weekend two different hiking parties lost their way as darkness came in southern Vermont and required rescue as they had not brought headlamps, and a similar incident occurred in mid-September on Mt. Worcester.

 

Officials from the Vermont State Police and Department of Public Safety encourage you to stay safe while enjoying the fall hiking season.  Be careful as you climb higher into the mountains with less available daylight hours and where winter-like conditions could exist.

 

For more information on this topic, please contact the agency representatives listed below:

 

Vermont Department of Public Safety: Neil VanDyke – 802-241-5656

Vermont State Police: Scott Waterman – 802-241-5277