Safety

Bryce Canyon averages just one fatality per year, but taking steps to stay safe remains a paramount concern in the park.

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Safety Details

Compared to some other parks, Bryce Canyon presents relatively fewer hazards to life and limb. Only about one person per year dies in the park, and the leading cause of death is heart attack, followed by falling off cliffs, being hit by lightning, and vehicular crashes. Far more people are involved in accidents, however. To avoid death and injuries while in the park: - Know your physical limits: at Bryce's elevation of 9,115 feet, you're only getting 70 percent of the oxygen you get at sea level, and all return hikes into the canyon are uphill. Turn back before you are tired! - Wear hiking boots with good ankle support and traction. - Dress in layers for changing weather conditions: the temperature can change up to 50 degrees in a day here. - Stay on designated trails and away from cliff edges. - Don't climb on rock formations or slopes. - Drink a quart or liter of water every 1-2 hours. Wear a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect from the sun. - Never approach, touch, or attempt to feed wild animals. - Obey speed limits and other traffic laws, watch for wildlife, and slow down at crosswalks and during bad weather. Never stop in roads, only in pullouts. Lightning is a major hazard at Bryce Canyon, especially on July and August afternoons. Even a distant flash of lightning is a warning to seek shelter in an enclosed building or vehicle when possible. Never stand under a tree in a lightning storm; instead, get to lower, less exposed locations away from tall, isolated objects and water. Stay in your safe location for at least a half-hour after you see the last flash or lightning or hear a thunderclap.

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