-and-
Follow these suggestions to ensure your trip to White Sands is filled with memories of sliding down dunes, taking in the sunset, and attending ranger guided tours.
Source: White Sands National Park (via Facebook)
Photo: Courtesy
People have died in White Sands National Park from heat related illnesses, dehydration, and getting lost.
Are you prepared to prevent heat illness? Nobody wants to look back on their vacation and remember the time they had to spend in the emergency room because they weren’t prepared for their trip. Follow these suggestions to ensure your trip to White Sands is filled with memories of sliding down dunes, taking in the sunset, and attending ranger guided tours.
- Bring one gallon of water per person per day.
- Bring all the high-energy salty snacks you will need for the day. An important part of staying hydrated is replenishing electrolytes.
- Never hike alone. If you do, make sure a friend or family member knows where you are going and when they can expect to hear from you.
- Always follow the trail markers when hiking. If you are at one trail marker and cannot see the next, turn around and return the way you came.
- Wear sun protection. Hat, sunglasses, long loose clothing, and sunblock are all necessities at the park. The sand reflects 80% of sunlight, making a sunburn much easier to get than in other locations. This also raises the ambient temperature by 15 degrees Fahrenheit or more.
- Choose to hike early in the morning or later in the afternoon. The sun is at its peak between 10am and 4pm. This is the hottest time of day, and your risk of developing heat illness will be high.
- If you are experiencing any kind of emergency, dial 911.
Your safety is your responsibility. Come prepared for all the activities you plan to participate in.
-and-
For more information on safety in White Sands National Park before your arrival please visit the park’s safety page: https://www.nps.gov/whsa/planyourvisit/safety.htm
