Mountain Safety

Before you go

Hiking, climbing, and ski accidents are a common cause of death and injury among Americans traveling abroad. Here are some mountain safety reminders from U.S. embassy personnel who have assisted Americans after accidents.

Tell someone your plans. Let your family or friends know where you are going before you leave. Register at mountain huts if available.

Know the local emergency phone numbers. Look up emergency contact numbers for the destination you are visiting. Make sure you have a way to call emergency services in a medical, weather, or other emergency.

Check conditions locally. Ask locals about weather conditions and other factors impacting mountain safety.
Plan for limited connectivity. Be aware that poor cell service or remote locations can make emergency response more difficult.
Get the right insurance. Make sure your coverage includes health and evacuation insurance. Evacuation and medical care can be extremely expensive. The U.S. does not cover these costs.

Our destination information pages offer Travel Guidance including unique information on adventure travel and transportation in your destination. They also include information on destination specific risks to U.S. travelers, visa requirements, safety and security conditions, crime, health and medical concerns, local laws, areas to avoid, and more.

Hiking and climbing

Avoid hiking or climbing alone.
Never hike or climb without proper footwear and protective equipment.
Ensure you have the right gear in good condition.
Prepare for altitude sickness and drink enough water.
Stay on marked trails and avoid dangerous or fast-moving rivers.
Understand the risks from wildlife such as bears, snakes, and ticks.
Not all parks and wilderness areas abroad will have safety protections.
Use common sense and avoid steep drop-offs or cliffs.
Just because you “can” go somewhere, doesn’t mean you “should” go there.

Camping

Check local fire restrictions, follow posted guidance, and fully extinguish any fire.

Bring emergency supplies like:

plenty of water
a first aid kit
flashlight or headlamp
map and compass in case your connection to GPS fails
sun protection
insect protection
extra layers including warm clothing
high energy food
shelter, like a tent

Mountain biking

Always wear a helmet.
Do safety checks on your equipment before each ride.

Skiing and snowboarding

Don’t ski or snowboard alone.
Know your limits.
Verify current avalanche conditions, particularly when skiing “off-piste” or outside ski resort boundaries.

Swimming

Lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams can appear pristine but contain dangerous or deadly bacteria and parasites.

Never swim alone.
Always pay close attention to children.
Do not dive or cliff jump into the water.
Do not swim or wade upstream from a waterfall.

Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service for U.S. citizens abroad. 

Enter information about your upcoming trip abroad. We will send you any safety and security alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate for your destination.
When submitting a travel plan in STEP you can provide your contact information, an emergency contact, and a trip contact. This way, the U.S. embassy or consulate can reach you or your emergency contact in an emergency.