CONTACT:
Colonel Kevin Jordan: (603) 271-3128
Lieutenant James Kneeland: (603) 744-5470
Lieutenant Heidi Murphy: (603) 271-3127
December 18, 2019

CONCORD, NH — Hikers, climbers, back country skiers, kayakers and other outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to purchase their voluntary annual Hike Safe Card for 2020. Card sales help defray the costs of training and rescue equipment for NH Fish and Game Law Enforcement Conservation Officers, preparing them to come to your aid if the unexpected happens.

Valid for the calendar year, the 2020 Hike Safe Cards cost $25 for an individual, or $35 for a family, and are good for the calendar year ending December 31, 2020. The price is the same for both residents and nonresidents. You can 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 year-round unpredictable weather and rugged terrain throughout the Granite State, 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. As of September 1, 2019, the New Hampshire Fish and Game Department sold 5,657 cards, which generated $143,403.00 for the fund. So far in 2019, Fish and Game have conducted a total of 189 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:
    • Sweater or Pile Jacket
    • Long Pants (wool or synthetic)
    • 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.

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.