Going to the forest – remember the rules

July 5, 2021

Every year, with the start of the berry and mushroom picking season, rescuers receive reports of people getting lost in the forests. Most of them are found, but unfortunately, not everyone is found. If you are going to the forest, arm yourself not only with the most necessary items but also with simple safety rules.

Every year, with the start of the berry and mushroom picking season, rescuers receive reports of people getting lost in the forests. Most of them are found, but unfortunately, not everyone is found. If you are going to the forest, arm yourself not only with the most necessary items but also with simple safety rules.

- Inform your relatives about your route and expected return time;

- Wear comfortable and waterproof clothing, preferably in bright colors. Be sure to wear a hat, high boots, and clothing that completely covers your legs and arms;

- Take water, medication, food supplies, a knife, matches, a phone, and a compass.

If you get lost in the forest, stay calm. Listen to the surrounding sounds. If you hear dogs barking, the sound of an axe, or the noise of cars or a train, head towards the sound. Streams and rivers, as well as power lines, will also lead you to people: follow the current until you find a path, or follow the power lines, which will lead you to a populated area.

If you cannot find your way out on your own, call 101 or 112.

Rescuers also remind you that forest or peat fires are usually caused by humans. In rare cases, such fires occur due to lightning strikes or spontaneous combustion of peat bogs. If you witness such an incident, first, clearly assess the situation and immediately report the incident to the rescue service by calling 101 or 112.