Essential Hiker Safety Guidelines

9 April 2025

Press Release

Follow these safety guidelines when planning your next hike:

• Map Out Your Adventure: Research the route using a map, hiking guide, or seek advice from an experienced hiker familiar with the trail.
• Assess the Challenge: Understand the hike's difficulty level, your own capability, and duration to plan accordingly and ensure a safe, enjoyable experience.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry enough water to last throughout your hike. As a general rule, aim for at least 1 litre of water per person per hour, especially in extreme temperatures.
• Eat: Make sure you have eaten correctly before walking and have sufficient snacks for the hike.
• Weather: Check the weather forecast before a hike and do not underestimate the possible effect of exposure to the sun during a prolonged walk, particularly in Ascension’s summer.
• Hike with a Buddy: Whenever possible don’t hike alone. It is highly recommended to hike with a partner or group to ensure safety and assistance in case of an emergency.
• Stay Connected: Bring multiple communication devices, including a mobile phone and/or a satellite phone, to ensure you can stay in touch and call for help in case of an emergency. Store emergency numbers in your phonebook (999 or +247 41999). Be aware that there very limited or no phone coverage on several of the walks, particularly those accessed from the NASA Road.
• Let Others Know Your Plans: Before you head out, let someone know your hiking itinerary, including: where you're going, when you expect to return, your planned route and stick to your plan and avoid deviating from your route to ensure someone can raise an alarm if you don't return on time.
• Be Prepared for Your Next Hike: Pack these essentials to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure: a fully-stocked first aid kit, a portable shade awning for sun protection, a reliable torch for navigating in the dark.

Operations and Facilities Directorate
04 March 2025