Staff Photo/Christopher Shaban
CONCORD — The Fourth of July marks the beginning of the busy summer hiking season in New Hampshire. As you make plans for the holiday weekend to get outside to hike, bike, kayak, or climb, be sure you have your voluntary Hike Safe card for 2021.
Outdoor enthusiasts are also encouraged to purchase this voluntary card for 2021 because card proceeds help defray the costs of training and of search and rescue equipment for Fish and Game Law Enforcement Conservation Officers, preparing them to come to your aid if the unexpected happens.
Severe summer storms can adversely affect trail conditions and water levels in rivers and streams without warning creating hazardous conditions for unprepared hikers. Knowing the weather forecasted for the day and for the region should be a priority for anyone exploring New Hampshire’s natural beauty and wild places.
“People must always take personal responsibility as they head out by acknowledging their physical limitations, being aware of changing weather conditions, and knowing when it’s time to turn back,” said Colonel Kevin Jordan, Chief of Law Enforcement at Fish and Game. “It is imperative that people enjoying New Hampshire’s natural resources exercise a high degree of caution. Unsafe and irresponsible behavior also puts first responders at extreme risk of injury.”
The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department is authorized to sell voluntary Hike Safe Cards for $25 per person and $35 per family. The card is valuable for anyone hiking, paddling, cross country skiing or engaging in other outdoor recreation. People who obtain the cards are not liable to repay rescue costs if they need to be rescued. An individual may still be liable for response expenses if the actions that created the need for the emergency response meet criteria set forth by legislation.
Cards can be purchased online at wildnh.com/safe and at New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Headquarters, 11 Hazen Dr., Concord, NH.
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