CONTACT:
Colonel Kevin Jordan: (603) 271-3128
Lieutenant James Kneeland: (603) 744-5470
October 10, 2019

CONCORD, NH – As the Columbus Day weekend and fall foliage inspires you to get outside to hike, bike, kayak, or climb, be sure you have your voluntary Hike Safe card for 2019. Card sales help ensure that New Hampshire Fish and Game Conservation Officers, trained in wilderness rescue, are ready to come to your aid if the unexpected happens.

2019 Hike Safe cards cost $25 for an individual, or $35 for a family, and are good for the calendar year ending December 31, 2019. The price is the same for residents and nonresidents. You can also purchase the card for someone else — they make a great gift for any adventurer.

Cards can be purchased online at www.wildnh.com/safe and at New Hampshire Fish and Game Department Headquarters, 11 Hazen Drive, in Concord.

Because of unpredictable fall weather and rugged terrain, the Hike Safe card has become popular among outdoor enthusiasts, and revenues raised through their sale go to the Department’s Search and Rescue Fund. During 2018, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department sold 5,311 cards, which generated $134,349 for the fund. In 2018, Fish and Game conducted 148 search and rescue missions. The card also exempts holders from certain liability for repaying search and rescue costs.

Purchasing a hunting or fishing license also provides you with the same protection as a Hike Safe card. In addition to Hike Safe card revenues, Fish and Game’s Search and Rescue Fund is supported by a $1 fee collected for each boat, snowmobile, and OHRV registered in New Hampshire.

“Whatever outdoor activity you enjoy — hiking, biking, paddling, cross country skiing, walking the nature trails in your town— the Hike Safe card is your back-up plan for the great outdoors,” said Fish and Game Law Enforcement Chief Colonel Kevin Jordan. “Buying a card is also a great way to help support Fish and Game’s search and rescue activities.”

Colonel Jordan strongly recommends that hikers carry with them the top 10 essentials to be prepared for changeable weather conditions and unanticipated emergencies, especially during fall and winter outings:

  • Map
  • Compass
  • Warm Clothing including a sweater or pile jacket, long pants (wool or synthetic), and a hat (wool)
  • Extra food and water
  • Flashlight or headlamp
  • Matches/firestarters
  • First Aid Kit/Repair Kit
  • Whistle
  • Rain/Wind Jacket and Pants
  • Pocket Knife

Read more about safe hiking at www.wildnh.com/outdoor-recreation/hiking-safety.html.

Hunter orange is a common-sense safety precaution for hunters—and hikers!

It’s your responsibility to hike safe. Be sure to follow the hiker responsibility code by being knowledgeable about where you are going and what the local weather and terrain conditions will be, leaving your plans with someone, staying together, turning back in inclement weather or if you are running out of daylight, and planning for emergencies. Visit www.hikesafe.com for more information.