News and Announcements
Winter Weather Safety Hazards in George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
Friday,
Jan 7,
2022 by Emily Sellards
With the winter snow and ice hikers and travelers alike should be prepared for worse conditions. The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests released a statement January 6th regarding the recent winter weather and how hikers + travelers can stay safe: https://www.fs.usda.gov/detail/gwj/news-events/?cid=FSEPRD985293
You can follow the GWJNF on twitter for updates (https://twitter.com/GWJNF). Here are several safety tips from the George Washington and Jefferson National Forest to stay safe on the roads and on the trails:
- - Travel the appropriate speed. Forest Service roads are not cleared of snow or ice. Expect roads to have icy sections throughout the winter. Motorists should avoid unnecessary travel when the weather causes treacherous driving conditions.
- - Vehicle should be in good working order and have appropriate tires for snow and mud, and plenty of fuel.
- - Carry an emergency road kit that supplies a map of the area, flashlight, tools, water, food, warm layered clothing and matches or other means for starting a fire.
- - Many places in the National Forest do not have cell phone coverage. Let someone know when and where you are going and when you plan to return.
- - If you plan to go winter hiking, wear proper shoes that can give you traction on icy trails. Don’t hike alone.
- - Before venturing out, check current and incoming weather conditions for your destination location and for the area you
rwill be travelling through.