Desert Safety
As enticing as the desert may seem to those who enjoy the activities that take place there, it can be a dangerous destination. Learning as much about desert safety as possible before your trip to southern Utah can mean the difference between a successful vacation and a disaster.
Having fun and being safe should go hand in hand when traveling to a place with which you are unfamiliar. The southern Utah desert is no exception. Though this dry area of the country is beautiful, it can be dangerous, especially if you're not properly prepared or versed in the particulars of desert safety.
One of the most important desert safety issues is the need to stay hydrated. Temperatures can reach in excess of 100 degrees F and lives can be lost to severe dehydration. Visitors to the desert should bring at least 2 gallons per person for a four to six hour trip, especially during the summer. Though it can be heavy to carry, it's more than necessary. If you're traveling in a car, always bring extra.
Navigation is also an important safety issue. The southern Utah desert traveler should plan where they're going before they leave and should have maps and compasses on hand. If possible, those visiting Moab should also carry a Global Positioning System (GPS), as trails are often poorly marked.
Southern Utah visitors should be prepared for a variety of desert weather conditions. Even though this is the desert, flash floods can occur and can be deadly. Lightning also kills a few people each year. Always carry rain gear and take shelter immediately if a storm is brewing.
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