Park Safety and Etiquette
Page Content There are several things to remember when enjoying wildlife and the outdoors including:
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Keeping dogs on leash at all times unless in designated off-leash areas. Dogs can frighten wildlife and damage sensitive habitats such as marshland and creek beds.
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Remaining on designated trails to prevent stepping on small animals, destroying the nests of ground nesting birds and damage to the ecosystem.
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Never approaching wildlife, especially those with young. You may be hurt by the parent protecting its young, or cause the parents and young to be separated. Use binoculars to view wildlife from a safe distance.
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If lifting up a log or rock to look underneath, make sure you place it carefully back where you found it when you are done. Many creatures make their homes under such places.
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Never picking or removing plants, flowers and small creatures. They are necessary for a healthy ecosystem and a lot of people each "taking just a few" adds up very quickly. Leave park fauna as you find it. Most wildlife species will not survive when removed from their habitat.
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Never feeding wildlife. Unnatural foods hurt wildlife's digestive systems and habituate them to humans and vehicles which puts both humans and wildlife at risk.
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If observing others abusing animals or the environment, reporting their description and license plate number to the Conservation Officer Service 1-800-663-WILD (9453), or FVRD Parks (604) 702-5000.
It is important to be aware and knowledgeable of park safety. To be safe while enjoying Regional Parks you should:
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Check park information kiosks for additional safety information and obey all signs.
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Consider avoiding forested areas during storms, heavy snow or ice accumulations to avoid potential injury from falling trees and branches.
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Remain on marked trails at all times. This limits environmental impacts, prevents injury and becoming lost.
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Know your hike and plan ahead. Tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return. Cell phones work in most, but not all, areas.
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Never carry too much and travel as lightly as possible. Important items to bring include water, nourishing snacks and emergency supplies such as first aid kit, flashlight and light waterproof jacket.
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Be aware that trails, walkways and structures may be slippery, especially when wet and/or covered with snow or leaves. Be especially aware of tripping hazards on trails. Wear appropriate footwear and clothing for both the season and park you are visiting.
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Allow enough time and energy to get back.
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Ensure cigarette butts are fully extinguished and carried out as garbage. Cigarette butts, improperly disposed of, may cause a fire.
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Keep pets on a leash for your safety and theirs and out of courtesy to other park users. Pets roaming at large can harm small wildlife, be killed by larger wildlife and may lure dangerous wildlife back towards you.
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Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
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Be aware that there are no life guards in regional parks and to please swim responsibily.
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Lock your vehicle, use an anti-theft device and keep valuables out of sight.

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