CONCORD, N.H. -- Hikers, climbers, back country skiers, kayakers and other outdoor enthusiasts are encouraged to purchase their voluntary annual Hike Safe Card for 2016. Card sales help ensure that N.H. Fish and Game Law Enforcement Conservation Officers, trained in wilderness rescue, are there to come to your aid if the unexpected occurs in a remote location. The card also makes the holder exempt from liability for repaying search and rescue costs due to negligence in New Hampshire (unless caused by reckless or intentional behavior).
2016 Hike Safe Cards cost $25 for an individual, or $35 for a family (parents and minor children), and are good for the calendar year ending December 31, 2016. The price is the same for in-state and non-residents. You can purchase the card for someone else -- they make a great gift for any backcountry adventurer on your list. Cards can be purchased online or by mail at www.wildnh.com/safe; they are also sold at the N.H. Fish and Game Department in Concord.
The card was first issued in 2015, and proved very popular. As of December 1, 2015, a total of 2,848 cards had been sold, bringing in more than $75,700 for the Fish and Game Search and Rescue Fund. Cards must be renewed annually.
"The Hike Safe Card got a great reception in its first year -- people seem to appreciate having a way to contribute to our Search and Rescue readiness, at the same time they get the peace of mind that if an incident occurs, reimbursement costs are covered," said Col. Kevin Jordan.
Avid hiker and Appalachian Mountain Club volunteer Dolores Rebolledo of Stratham, N.H., was one of the first people to buy the new Hike Safe Card in 2015. Rebolledo has conquered all the four-thousand footers in New England, is certified in Wilderness First Aid, and records her adventures on a hiking blog. "Each time I step on the trail I bring the 10 Essentials and extra items as well. I feel I am well prepared," Rebolledo said, according to the statement, "but I appreciate the assurance the card gives me year-round should something happen that requires rescue."
In recent years (2006-2014), Fish and Game has conducted an average of 180 search and rescue missions each year. Under state law, the Fish and Game Department can pursue reimbursement for rescue costs if the person rescued is deemed to have acted negligently. From 2006 through 2014, the Department recouped over $69,600 in rescue cost reimbursements.
In addition to Hike Safe Card revenues, Fish and Game’s Search and Rescue Fund is supported by a $1 fee collected for each boat, snowmobile and OHRV registered in New Hampshire.
Visit www.wildnh.com/safe today and buy or renew your Hike Safe Card for 2016!
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