Warm up to Responsible Recreation: Stay Safe this Summer Near Water, Wildlife, and Wildfires

Description: ATVs at the Arkansas Headwaters... Photo Courtesy of Colorado Parks and Wildlife...

DENVER – Coloradans and out-of-state visitors play an integral role in keeping our state parks clean, living in harmony with wildlife, and making the outdoors safer to explore. 

Below are a few outdoor tips on how to have fun outside this summer while also showing respect for Colorado’s land, wildlife, and water.

Know Before You Go
Create your outdoor adventure based on the weather forecast, your skill level, and what safety gear is required. If the area you want to explore has bad weather, pivot your outdoor plan to avoid a dangerous situation.  

• Plan your visit with the Colorado State Parks Guide (el folleto de parques en Español)
• Use the Park Finder Tool to discover outdoor activities at each state park
• Download the free COTREX app to find trail maps and customize your adventure
• Camping reservations are required at Colorado state parks
• Find park events and classes on the CPW Events Calendar
• Stay hydrated: Bring more water than you think you (and your pet) will need
• Wear sunscreen: Use the free sunscreen stations at select state parks
• Participate in Celebrate Colorado Week, a statewide celebration coordinated by the Governor's Office where Coloradans can enjoy free and discounted activities across the state.  

Be Safe on the Water
Life jackets save lives. The majority of water-related deaths occur because people do not wear them. CPW officers are actively writing $100 tickets for boaters and paddlers who are not wearing them; however, personal accountability for safety is important when recreating in Colorado waters. 
Wear a life jacket (pets too)​. Learn about our life-jacket loaner program.

• Dress accordingly and protect your​self from the dangers of cold water shock.
• Paddleboards and kayaks are considered vessels, and life jacket requirements apply.
• Heavy rain and wind can raise water levels quickly and without notice. Check river flows at https://dwr.state.co.us/Tools/Stations.
• Only boat or paddle in conditions in which you are comfortable and confident paddling.
• Boat with a buddy and avoid floating alone, especially during high flows.
• Hire a Colorado-licensed river outfitter to help you navigate challenging water conditions. 
• Keep your vessel clean, drained, and dry to help prevent the spread of aquatic nuisance species (zebra mussels). Find a Statewide Watercraft Inspection and Decontamination Site​​​​​​ in Colorado.

Be Careful with Fire
Colorado is experiencing wildfires across multiple counties on the Front Range and Western Slope. Brave first responders and local, state and federal agencies are currently working to protect Colorado communities and lands. Fire safety is a state-wide effort and CPW encourages Coloradans to practice fire safety at all times. 
Information on fire restrictions and bans can change rapidly. 

• Check fire restrictions or bans at www.coemergency.com.
• Download the free Colorado Trail Explorer (COTREX) app for active wildfire alerts.
• Use designated campfire areas when allowed and available. 
• Drown fires out with water until you can touch the embers.
• Never leave a campfire unattended. 
• Avoid parking or driving on dry grass. Check your tire pressure, exhaust pipes, and whether chains or exposed wheel rims are dragging from your vehicle, which may create sparks. 

Trash the Trash
Always dispose of trash properly when on the trail.

• Pack it in, pack it out. Whatever you bring into the outdoors, take it out with you. 
• Don't leave a pet waste baggie on the trail, even if you mean to pick it up on your way out. People forget, and pet waste is not only unsightly but disruptive to wildlife.
• Bring along plastic grocery bags to carry trash when trash cans are not available or full. 

Keep Wildlife Wild
Wildlife can get more aggressive if they aren’t given enough space or approached by humans. 

• Do not feed or approach wildlife
• Be “bear aware” on trails and while camping
• Keep dogs leashed on trails to prevent them from chasing wildlife.
• If you see wildlife that appears sick or injured, leave it alone. Call your local CPW office and ask a trained wildlife officer for guidance. 

Join us in keeping Colorado, Colorado. Get a $29 Keep Colorado Wild Pass with your next vehicle registration and support our state parks, search and rescue teams, avalanche safety, wildlife conservation, and outdoor education. Learn more at cpw.info/keepcoloradowild and cpw.info/keepcoloradowildpassspanish. 

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