Safety Guidelines

We're all adults here, and nobody is going to force anyone to do anything. At the same time, the information below is important. The more challenging the hike, the more important it becomes—sometimes even essential.
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Before the Hike

• Read the hike description carefully. Pay attention to the difficulty level, number of days, distance, elevation gain, terrain, required equipment, and expected fitness level. Make sure you are mentally, physically, and logistically prepared.
• Pack according to the equipment list and avoid bringing unnecessary items.
• Do not wear brand-new hiking shoes on a trip. Break them in properly beforehand over several days.
• Whenever possible, test new equipment on an easier hike before taking it on a demanding expedition.
• Follow all preparation instructions and listen carefully to advice from the trip leader.
• Pay attention to your health. If you are feeling unwell, do not join the hike.
• Your safety mindset should begin before the hike starts. Whether you're driving, taking public transportation, or walking to the meeting point, stay alert and take care of yourself.
• If you have any questions—even if they seem silly—ask the trip leader.
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Throughout the Hike

• Monitor your physical and mental condition. Inform the trip leader immediately if you experience illness, injury, dehydration, heat exhaustion, food poisoning, unusual fatigue, low morale, or anything else that affects your well-being. This is important.
• The same applies to your equipment. If something is damaged or not functioning properly, let the organizers know.
• Pay attention to your fellow hikers. Sometimes it is easier to notice problems in others than in ourselves.
• Use common sense. Safety awareness should always be active. Before doing something, ask yourself whether it is safe.
• Ask questions whenever you are unsure.
• Follow the instructions of the trip leader. They are given for the safety of the entire group.
• Leave no trace. Respect nature and treat it with care.
• Additional safety instructions may be given at specific locations or sections of the route.
  
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While the Group Is Moving

• Do not walk ahead of the lead guide or behind the sweep (the last person in the group).
• Keep the hiker in front of you within sight at all times. A distance of up to 10 meters is generally recommended.
• In dense vegetation, keep approximately 2–5 meters between yourself and the person ahead to avoid losing visual contact and to prevent branches from snapping back into you.
• Avoid walking too close to the person in front. If they stop suddenly, you could collide and fall.
• Do not stop on the trail without informing the group. Rest breaks are scheduled by the trip leader. If you need to stop, notify the leader or sweep.
• If you become separated from the group, stay where you are. Signal your location using your voice, a whistle, or another loud sound. At night, use a flashlight as well.
  
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During Rest Stops

• Use break times wisely: drink water, eat a light snack, use the restroom if needed, and recover properly.
• Allow yourself to rest. Find a comfortable place in the shade or sun depending on the weather. Take off your backpack, sit or lie down, and if appropriate, remove your shoes to give your feet a break.
• If you need to leave the group temporarily, let the leader or another participant know.
• During meal preparation, be careful with knives, hot cookware, and stoves.
  
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At Camp

• The trip leader determines the locations for campfires, cooking areas, and sleeping arrangements.
• For safety reasons, camp boundaries or restricted areas may be designated.
• Before dark, familiarize yourself with the campsite and surrounding area.
• When preparing food, take care to avoid cuts and burns.
• Around the campfire, follow fire-safety rules. Avoid inhaling smoke and watch out for firewood, branches, and other potential hazards.
• Campfires must be fully extinguished before everyone goes to sleep.
• Go to bed at a reasonable hour to ensure adequate recovery for the following day.
  
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After the Hike

• Travel home carefully. After a hike, people are often tired, relaxed, and less attentive than usual.
• Drink plenty of water.
• If possible, take a day off after demanding hikes to recover.
• The day after a hike, consider doing some stretching, yoga, or a light walk to help your body recover.

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