Essential Summer Recreation Safety Tips

Wear Proper Protection

Whether this is sunscreen, bug spray, a hat, bike helmet, or just proper footwear, always take an extra moment to prepare for the outdoors. The sun can be more intense at higher elevations, with the average elevation in Siskiyou sitting around 4,000 feet. Start with your skin, as sun exposure can lead to painful burns, or even skin cancer, and ticks can carry infections such as Lyme disease. Know how to spot the three-leaf pattern in poison oak and try to avoid if possible. Consider wearing lightweight long clothing to protect you from harmful insects, plants, and the sun’s rays, this will also help keep your body cool. Making these simple adjustments to your routine will help you enjoy your time in the outdoors and all the memories made!

Drink A Lot of Water

Prevent heat-related illnesses by drinking plenty of water. Bring more water than you think you need on hikes or when recreating in remote areas and make sure to bring along some salty snacks or electrolytes to keep your body in best shape. Things like bananas, nuts, trail mix, and granola are good compact options. Hydration bladders and collapsible water pouches are a lightweight option for hiking and filtered water bottles make it safe to refill from a natural source safely. In addition to filling up on water, make sure to rest in the shade, wear light clothing, and avoid strenuous activities during peak heat hours which is typically mid-day to evening in the summer months.

Exercise Caution Around Fire

Summer means fire risk is high in California’s North, always use extreme caution when grilling or enjoying a campfire. Make sure to check the current burn bans and learn how to properly extinguish a fire so that it is completely OUT! When visiting during fire season, which is typically August through October, check local agency updates on current fire status and familiarize yourself with exit routes if you are in a remote area.

Be Careful Around Water

Always exercise caution when recreating near water and wear life jackets, especially in unpredictable waters. Fast moving rivers can be dangerous, even to the most experienced swimmers. Even in summer, some lakes and rivers stay dangerously cold and sudden immersion can cause muscle cramps or shock which may make it hard to swim. Check for hazards like sudden drop offs, submerged logs, rocks or other obstructions under the surface. Whether swimming, fishing, rafting, or kayaking, a little caution goes a long way in making sure every adventure is safe and fun.

Know Your Limits

Knowing your limits is a key part of staying safe during any outdoor recreation. It means understanding your physical capabilities, skill level, and endurance—so you don’t push yourself into dangerous situations. Know the signs of fatigue, dehydration or other conditions that can escalate quickly is wise so listen to your body. Being adventurous is great, but balancing ambition with awareness will make your outdoor experiences safer and more enjoyable.

Tell Someone Where You are Going

Especially when recreating alone, it’s always a good idea to tell others where you plan to recreate and when to expect you back. If you get lost, injured, or face unexpected dangers like bad weather or wildlife, rescuers will have a much better chance of finding you if they know where to look. Also, many areas of Siskiyou’s outback have unreliable cell service so you may not be able to call for help if you find yourself in trouble. Practicing this simple step can make all the difference in an emergency situation.

Final Thoughts

Exercising caution in the outdoors is good practice so that you can come back for future adventures. Being intentional to preserve the natural world is just as important. Consider taking the Wander Above Pledge and commit to keeping Siskiyou wild and just as epic for when you come back next time!