How to stay safe during winter hikes, according to the DEC
ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- On December 1, New York State Police and Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) forest rangers began searching for a missing hiker in Essex County. 22-year-old Leo DuFour, of Vaudreuil, Quebec, was last known to be wearing a black coat, black pants, a tan winter hat, hiking boots, reflective sunglasses, and a black backpack.
After eight days of searching and harsh weather conditions, officials say the search mission turned into a recovery mission.
On December 15, the Schoharie County Sheriff's Office requested DEC forest rangers' assistance to search for a hiker in the Blenheim State Forest. After following tracks in the snow overnight, forest rangers found the hiker and treated the person for frostbite.
These are just some of the search missions DEC Forest Rangers have conducted in 2024. Last year, the DEC responded to 270 search and rescue missions.
If you're thinking about exploring the great outdoors during the winter, here are some safety tips and essentials from the DEC to keep you safe.
What to wear:
- Base layers including waterproof or water-resisting outer layers. Avoid cotton materials
- Thick socks, a winter hat, gloves or mittens
- Waterproof, insulated boots
- Skis or snowshoes
- A watch or time-keeping device
What to pack:
- Water and high energy snacks
- First Aid Kit
- Map or Compass
- Extra clothing, extra hats, socks, mittens
- Plastic whistle
- Flashlight
- Micro-spikes
- Trekking poles
- Space blanket and heavy-duty garbage bags
- Fire Starter Kit
When on the Trail:
- Watch the weather conditions, if conditions worsen, head back
- Add or remove layers of clothing to keep body temperature comfortable; overheating and sweating can result in significant cooling and hypothermia.
- Stay on trails to avoid unseen obstacles covered by snow
- Use snowshoes or skis in deep snow to reduce injuries
- Snowshoes or skis are required in the High Peaks when snow depth exceeds 8 inches
If you get lost:
- Try to determine your location, look for recognizable landmarks
- Use a map or compass, otherwise stay in place
- Call DEC dispatch, 1-833-NYS-RANGERS (1-833-697-7264) or 911, if you have cell service
- If you don't have cell service, wear something brightly colored, or put a brightly covered item in a conspicuous location
- Clear an area of snow to build a campfire for heat and light
- Use snow or items from your pack to build a shelter that could keep you warm
In case of emergency, make sure to have these phone numbers saved in your phone:
- DEC Emergency Dispatch: (518) 408-5850
- In the Adirondacks: (518) 891-0235
- In case of an emergency, the New York State Forest Ranger dispatch phone number is 833-NYS-RANGERS
If you can’t access these numbers, you can always call 911. For more information about staying safe outdoors during the winter, visit the DEC website.