Authorities Say Awareness Key to Staying Safe in Parks
Despite an isolated attack on a woman hiking in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee State Park rangers say their parks are safe. “There are inherent dangers anytime you’re going to be out in the wilderness,” said Park Ranger Greg Taylor of Natchez Trace State Park. Ranger Taylor recommends getting information about a trail or campground before getting out into nature. “Always carry a park map with you, a whistle to locate if you’re lost, so park rangers could locate you easier,” said Ranger Taylor. Natchez Trace State Park is staffed 24 hours a day, and works closely with the local sheriff’s department. “If anyone were to have an issue on a hiking trail or anywhere else in the park, they would contact Pin Oak Lodge and we could get in touch with a ranger very quickly,” said Ranger Taylor. They keep records of campers on campgrounds and anyone staying on a trail overnight. “If we do have any vehicles in parking lots, we know who’s who and where they are on the trail,” said Ranger Taylor. Even if you want a little alone time with nature while on one of the trails, Ranger Taylor still recommends keeping some form of technology. “I know we want to get away from everything and that’s one of the draws of state parks, but being able to get in touch with someone if you do have problems if you slip and fall – it’s just always a good idea to bring a cell phone with you,” said Ranger Taylor. It’s also a good idea to travel with a friend. “Bring a buddy,” said Ranger Taylor. “It’s always good to be in pairs when you’re going to be out off in the wilderness or out in nature.” If you don’t have a friend who wants to hike, park ranger recommends leaving your contact information with the lodge, and letting a loved one know where you’re going and when you’ll be back.
