Boulder County, Colo. - Boulder County offers an abundance of world-class hiking and biking trails, climbing routes, and water-based recreation that attract outdoor enthusiasts from across the region. With so many people recreating in our beautiful area, we are also seeing a significant increase in the number of search and rescue calls.

Please help keep yourself safe and support our search and rescue teams by planning ahead and recreating responsibly. Search and rescues in Boulder County are free of charge, except ambulance transport, but rescuers are volunteers. Please plan ahead and do your part to minimize preventable emergencies.

Before You Go

• Know before you go. Learn about the trail, route, or area you plan to visit. Understand the difficulty level, any potential hazards, and whether you need specialized gear.
• Check the weather. Colorado’s weather changes rapidly, especially in the mountains. Always check current and forecasted conditions for your destination and time activities.
• Tell someone your plan. Let someone know where you're going, who you're with, and when to expect you back. Share details like your vehicle's make and license plate. If plans change, update them.

• Have a backup plan. Many trailheads fill quickly. Know where else you can go if parking or access is limited.
• Know your limits. Choose trails or waterways that match your fitness and skill level.

What to Bring

• Food and water. Bring more than you think you’ll need, especially water. A good rule is one liter per hour of activity, plus electrolytes. Drink often and eat salty snacks.

• Navigation tools. Carry a paper map or download offline maps. Consider a handheld GPS with an SOS feature in remote areas. Track your location with landmarks and maps.
• Emergency gear. Always pack a first aid kit, flashlight or headlamp, whistle, emergency blanket, and extra batteries or a phone charger.
• Dress appropriately. Wear moisture-wicking layers, sun protection, and clothing suited to changing conditions.
• Fully charged cell phone. Text 911 if you don’t have a strong enough signal to call.

If You Need Help

• Call or text 911. If calling doesn’t work due to signal strength, try texting 911.
• Personal Locator Beacon. If you are recreating in remote areas with no cell phone service, carry a Personal Locator Beacon so rescue crews can find your location more quickly.
• Stay put. If you get lost, try to retrace your steps or stay put. If it’s dark, you're injured, or exhausted, stop and wait for help.

Weather Safety

• Watch the weather. Expect temperatures to drop 3–5°F for every 1,000 feet of elevation. Anticipate afternoon thunderstorms and plan to be done recreating before they arrive.
• Lightening. If caught above the tree line in a storm, descend quickly and avoid isolated trees. In open areas, crouch low with feet together and stay at least 15 feet apart from others.
• Recognize heat illness.
• Heat exhaustion symptoms: pale face, nausea, cramps, moist skin, headache. Treatment: hydrate with electrolytes, rest in the shade, and cool your body with water.
• Heat stroke symptoms: flushed face, confusion, dry skin, seizures, unconsciousness. Treatment: cool immediately with water and fans, call 911, and seek emergency care.

Water Safety

• Always wear a life jacket. It must fit snugly and be appropriate for your activity.
• Cold water protection. A wetsuit or drysuit can prevent hypothermia.
• Use a helmet. Wear a helmet for water sports in unknown or rocky areas.
• Label your gear. Mark tubes, kayaks, and boards with your contact info in case you are separated from them. This helps emergency crews determine if you need assistance.

Dogs and the Outdoors

• If bringing your dog, pack extra water and snacks for them.
• Be mindful of trail and ground temperatures to protect their paws.

Enjoy Boulder County responsibly and help keep our outdoors safe and enjoyable for all.