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Our commitment is providing a safe environment for forest users. We want you to have a positive experience during your visit. The rules, regulations, orders, and other important information posted in or near recreation sites, trailheads, and forest boundaries are for your safety and protection. We encourage you to be aware of potential safety hazards and unforeseen dangers. Nature can be unpredictable at times, but you can take precautions to ensure that your visit is a safe one. Safety is a personal responsibility.

We ask that you take the time to read the information and abide by the regulations.

NEW - Heat Illness Prevention

Camping and Trail Safety

Hunting Safety

Fire Safety

Other Safety Concerns

In addition to the normal hazards you'd expect in an outdoor environment, please be aware that there are a few man-made hazards. One of the most common is vehicle break-ins.

Park your vehicle in a safe place. If you intend to leave your vehicle while you explore, you will need to leave it somewhere safe, especially if you decide to spend the night on the trails. You may park your vehicle at North or South Welcome Station, Golden Pond Visitor Center, the parking lot at Fort Henry, or the "Snack Shack" across the from the Administrative Office. Please be aware that if you leave your vehicle at Golden Pond Visitor Center, the gate is locked from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. You should also let someone know (the facility staff or the Law Enforcement Office) where you will be leaving your car and for how long.

Lock any valuables in your trunk. If the thief can't see valuable items in plain site, he or she may move on to another vehicle. It is easier to break into a window than into a trunk to gain access to valuables.

Never leave a note on your vehicle telling when you will return. Give this information to a neighbor or friend. Thieves will be more inclined to break into your vehicle if they know how long you will be gone. We also recommend informing the staff at North Welcome Station, South Welcome Station, or Golden Pond Visitor Center of your whereabouts if you are visiting during business hours.

Do not rely on cell phones for safety! Cell phone service is patchy in LBL, and in the event of an emergency you may not be able to phone for help. Make sure you are aware of the facilities surrounding you that may assist you in the event of an accident or emergency.

Always tell someone when you are leaving for a trip, where you are going and when you plan to return. In the event of an accident, it is important that someone knows where you are. TrailNote.com is a free online alert system that allows you to get there and back safely.

Please be careful on the roads! When driving on back country roads, please use caution. Watch out for farm equipment, animals, and other people and vehicles. Due to road construction on US 68/KY 80, there may be large rocks and debris on the main road. Be cautious when driving and watch out for workers and equipment. Please pay attention to reduced speed limit signs and lane shifts.

Please remember that your safety is your responsibility.

About Law Enforcement and Investigation (LE&I)
Law Enforcement is an integral part of the overall management of LBL. Law Enforcement personnel, line officers, and appropriate staff ensure that prevention, investigation, enforcement, and program management requirements are fully integrated into all National Forest System resource management programs. LE&I staff provide a 24-hour presence to deter crimes against persons and respond to emergencies at LBL. In addition, you may contact (877) 861-2457 to report any crimes or emergencies.

Law Enforcement personnel operate as full partners within the Forest Service organization in carrying out the agency's mission, especially in upholding federal laws and regulations that protect natural resources, agency employees, and the public. Accomplishment of the Forest Service Law Enforcement mission is a product of trust, cooperation, and collaboration between Law Enforcement personnel and other agency employees.

Our Vision
The Law Enforcement and Investigations organization is an integral part of the Forest Service, recognized as leaders in public and employee safety, natural resource protection, and as a professional cooperator with other law enforcement agencies. The Forest Service Law Enforcement organization is a diverse workforce committed to integrity, responsibility, and accountability.

Our Mission
To serve people and protect natural resources and property within the authority and jurisdiction of the Forest Service.

Our Objectives

Protect the public, employees, natural resources, and other property under the jurisdiction of the Forest Service.
Investigate and enforce applicable laws and regulations which affect the National Forest Service System.
Prevent criminal violations through informing and educating visitors and users of applicable laws and regulations.

Hazardous Weather

Being outdoors in hazardous weather is dangerous. Tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, droughts, snow and ice, and occasional flooding are common in this area. It is important to be aware of what precautions to take in the event of hazardous weather.

Lightning

Being outdoors in a thunderstorm is the most dangerous place to be. If you see lightning or hear thunder, seek shelter indoors or in a covered vehicle.
If you cannot find shelter indoors, it is better to be in the forest. If possible, take shelter under a grove of small trees. Make sure to avoid the taller trees, as lightning strikes the tallest objects.
If you are above the tree line when a thunderstorm approaches, descend quickly. Get to the lowest point possible.
If you are in an open field, seek the lowest point and crouch down. Never lie down or spread out, but try to make yourself as small as possible.
NEVER swim in a lake or pond during a thunderstorm. Boaters and fishermen should get off the water as soon as possible and seek shelter. If you cannot make it off the water, crouch low and wait for the storm to pass.
Drop all metal objects such as golf clubs, fishing poles, umbrellas, etc.
Never pitch a tent near taller trees or metal poles. Electric lightning storms can occur during the summer months.
Get off motorcycles, bicycles, and off highway vehicles and seek shelter.
Don't return to an open area too soon, as it is still possible to be struck by lightning after a storm passes.

Droughts
Droughts are common in the summer, especially in the late summer months of July and August.

Droughts often encourage the spread of wildfires, so be aware of the risk of campfires; never leave a campfire unsupervised, even for a short hike.
Campfires should be contained only in designated fire rings and should be kept small.
Take precautions when using gas or propane grills, lanterns, or stoves.
Never throw a cigarette out the window or in the grass. Always use an ash tray.
Carry plenty of drinking water, even if you're just out for a day hike. Droughts are common in the summer, and it's easy to get dehydrated quickly.

Hazard Trees
The January 2009 ice storm did immense damage to the forests of Kentucky. Precarious branches and old trees can pose a potential hazard.

Be aware of your surroundings at all times. Avoid dense areas of damaged trees or hanging limbs, as trees may fall at any time.
Stay out of the forest when there are strong winds. Wind has the potential to break limbs and blow down trees. If you are already in the forest, find a clearing and get out quickly.
Park your vehicle close to a main road to avoid being trapped in the event that a tree falls.
Listen for any cracking, breaking, or popping noises; this is a sign that a tree is about to fall.
Observe any closure signs in the area; if you are unsure about whether an area is safe, do not enter that area.
Never build a campfire near hanging branches or under a tree. Campfires can get out of control, and all it takes is a spark to start a wildfire.
Always look up while on trails, especially when there are strong winds; keep an eye out for potentially hazardous trees.

How to spot a hazard tree:
A "hazard tree" is a tree with a structural defect that is likely to fall at any given time. Here are some ways to spot a hazard tree:

Numerous fallen trees or branches in the area
Leaning trees
Dead or broken tops and/or hanging limbs
Absence of needles, bark, or limbs
Rotted trees indicated by numerous woodpecker holes, broken tops, downed limbs, "cat faces" or tree scars caused by fire, basal scars, and ants.

Tornadoes
Tornadoes are common in this area, especially in the spring and late summer months when the weather changes often. They are very dangerous. It is important to know the signs of a tornado and what to do in the event that one occurs.

Signs a tornado may occur:

Tornadoes do not only occur during a thunderstorm. They often occur during weather changes, such as a cold or warm front. If the weather forecast shows a front moving in, keep an eye on any developing storm systems.
A persistent rotation in the cloud base indicates the possibility of a tornado.
A funnel formed in the clouds is the easiest way to spot a developing tornado.
A dead calm followed by heavy rain or hail is common right before a tornado occurs.
A loud rumble resembling the sound of a train is typically what a tornado sounds like.

What to do if a tornado occurs:

If possible, find shelter indoors away from glass windows. At developed campgrounds, the bathroom or shower facilities may be the best option.
If no indoor shelter is available, find a ditch or low-lying area and lie down, or crouch low next to a sturdy structure. Cover your head, face, and neck with your arms to avoid flying debris.
If you are in a car, get out quickly and find shelter indoors or in a low-lying area outside. Never try to outrun a tornado in a vehicle; tornadoes can change direction quickly and easily lift up a car or truck.

Be aware of the potential for flooding during a tornado.

Wildlife Dangers

Land Between The Lakes provides a natural habitat for many varieties of wildlife, including animals that may potentially be dangerous. With the exception of those animals that may be hunted during approved hunting seasons, wildlife is protected in LBL. Venomous snakes, coyotes, bobcats, smaller mammals, and a variety of other wild animals roam freely in LBL's open lands and forested areas. Most of these animals are rarely seen by humans, and attacks are uncommon, but you should still be aware of the possibility of encountering dangerous wildlife. Here are a few tips to remember:

White-tail deer are numerous in LBL. The potential to hit a deer with your vehicle is great. Keep this in mind while driving, especially at dawn or dusk. Deer can be unpredictable and may run into the road unexpectedly. Deer often travel in groups, so if you see one, there may be more. In 2007, there were 2,917 deer collisions in Kentucky.
There are often stray dogs and other animals in LBL. When found, the majority of these animals are rescued and rehabilitated. Never approach a stray animal. They are often aggressive and can cause serious injuries. If you find a stray dog or other stray animal in the area, contact any LBL facility.
Never approach wild animals. Wild animals are often scared of humans, and they may attack. Some may carry rabies, so it is best to admire them from a distance. If an animal responds to your presence, you are too close.
Never assume a baby animal needs help. Here at LBL, all animals are in their natural habitat and will react instinctively. If you see an injured animal, please contact any LBL facility, or call (877) 861-2457.
Never feed wild animals! Feeding animals interferes with their natural habitat, can cause complications in animals' health and digestion, and may result in serious injury or death to both people and animals.
There are four types of venomous snakes in LBL, and their bites can be life-threatening. When camping, keep tents closed and camping gear off the ground. Keep an eye out for snakes on the ground or in water while hiking or swimming.
Elk and bison roam in an enclosed prairie, and they can be very dangerous. In order to protect our wildlife and our visitors, it is prohibited to walk into the prairie. Keep pets on a leash or in a vehicle, and keep a safe distance from the prairie's fence.
It is fairly uncommon to spot larger animals such as bobcats and coyotes in LBL. If you do happen to run across a larger animal, keep your distance. More than likely, they will not approach you, but there is a possibility; they are instinctive hunters.

In the event of a deer collision, move your vehicle to the side of the road and call Law Enforcement. Do not touch the deer; if it is still alive, it may injure you in an attempt to get away.

Insects
Insects are present in every natural habitat, and they are often difficult to see. Chiggers, ticks mosquitoes, and various other insects are densely populated in LBL. Mosquitoes and ticks may carry diseases such as Lyme disease, Malaria, and encephalitis. Chiggers live in tall grass and although they do not carry any known diseases, their bites cause extreme itching and can become infected. It is wise to keep bug spray on you while hiking or camping.

Prevention is the best way to avoid getting bitten. Following a few common tips can lower the risk of getting bitten and contracting disease.

Apply insect repellant when you're outdoors. Apply DEET to skin and Permanone to clothing and gear.
Wear loose fitting clothes to help prevent mosquitoes and to retain less heat.
When possible, wear long sleeves, socks, and long pants.
Wear colors that blend in with the background. Mosquitoes are attracted to color contrast and movement.
Avoid applying perfume, cologne, fragrant hair spray, and scented lotions and soaps. Mosquitoes are attracted to sweet fragrances.
Reduce exposure by staying indoors during peek mosquito feeding hours (from dusk until dawn).
Avoid lingering in places where mosquitoes lay eggs, usually in standing water.

Spiders
There are dozens of different spiders in the forest, but only the pose a serious threat - the brown recluse and the black widow. They both have very distinguishing characteristics; the brown recluse is brown with long, skinny legs, and a design on its back that resembles a violin; a black widow is black and shiny with long legs and a very prominent red hourglass shape on its abdomen; female black widows are typically much larger than males. Both spiders like to hide in dark, dry places, and black widows often hide out in their characteristically messy web. Their bites are usually not deadly, but still very dangerous. Brown recluse venom deteriorates the flesh, and black widow venom attacks the nervous system. It is often difficult to tell if you have been bitten without seeing the spider, so you should know how to identify the symptoms of a venomous spider bite.

Symptoms of a brown recluse bite typically develop two to eight hours after a bite, and include severe pain at the site, severe itching, nausea, vomiting, fever, and muscle pain. The bite starts as a mild red bump and usually heals completely within about two weeks; more serious bites will result in inflammation, blistering and blue discoloration, ultimately leading to a necrotic lesion and scarring. Bite victims should see a doctor for serious symptoms.
Black widows rarely inject enough venom for a bite to be fatal. The venom attacks the nervous system and is one of the most potent venoms secreted by any animal. Symptoms include acute pain at the site about 20 minutes after the bite. More serious symptoms include localized or generalized severe muscle cramps, abdominal pain, weakness, and tremor. Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, chest pain, and respiratory difficulties may follow. Children and the elderly are usually more affected than young adults.
If you know you have been bitten by a spider and experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention and be sure to tell your physician about the bite. If possible, trap the spider and show it to your physician to ensure you receive appropriate treatment.

Bees, Yellow Jackets, and Wasps
A variety of bees, yellow jackets, and wasps are also common throughout LBL. These flying insects are usually harmless unless provoked or threatened. Be cautious when walking through the forest or near any structure with an overhang, as they may contain nests and swarms of stinging insects. Open soda cans, juice bottles, food, etc., often attract these pests. If you are allergic to bee or wasp stings, know what to do in the event that you are stung and be aware of ways to prevent getting stung, such as avoiding areas where bees and wasps are commonly found.

Health Hazards

There is often a possibility of illness when spending time in the outdoors, but that should never keep you from enjoying your time at LBL. Following these precautionary measures will help avoid any potential health hazards.

Hypothermia - Hypothermia occurs when the body's temperature falls and cannot maintain its temperature or produce heat, and it is the number one killer in outdoor recreation. Hypothermia can occur in warm and cold temperatures as a result of cold weather, wind, little sunshine, and damp or wet clothing. Here are some precautionary tips to avoid getting hypothermia and things to do in case hypothermia sets in.

Always bring extra clothes and blankets when camping, even in warm weather. Wet clothes lose almost all of their insulating value. In the event your clothes get wet (including socks and shoes), change into dry clothes and layer with sweaters or blankets until you feel your body temperature rise. Try to find warm shelter or make a fire to produce heat.
If the weather is cool or cold, do not swim! Use caution when boating in cool weather; loss of body heat in cold water is a major cause of death in boating accidents. Do not drink alcohol around cold water, as alcohol lowers body temperature.
If you get cold, layer with heavy clothes or blankets. Never ignore shivering, the first sign of falling body temperature.
Keep your hands, feet, and head dry and warm by wearing gloves, thick socks, and a hat or hood. Much of your body heat exits through these extremities; if your head is cold or your hands and feet have a bluish tint, this is a sign of early stages of hypothermia.
While sleeping, make sure you are covered with heavy blankets.
Beware of apparent exhaustion; hypothermia causes severe drowsiness. If you feel cold and very tired, layer your clothes and make a fire, or find warm shelter if possible.

Signs of hypothermia:

Uncontrollable shivering
Slurred speech
Memory lapse or incoherence
Immobile or fumbling hands
Drowsiness or apparent exhaustion
Stumbling

For more safety tips on hypothermia prevention and treatment, please click here.

Heat Exhaustion - Heat exhaustion usually occurs during intense physical activity or exposure to extreme heat, and can be deadly. Even if you are not exercising or exerting your energy, heat exhaustion or heat stroke can set in, causing excessive fluid loss and loss of blood to vital organs. In order to avoid heat exhaustion, follow the safety tips below.

Drink plenty of water! Even if you don't feel thirsty, drink several bottles of water a day. Don't wait until you get thirsty to drink. Remember that 60 percent of your body is water, and maintaining fluid levels is important for body function.
Keep your body cool with fans or get in the water. Swimming can bring down body temperature quickly if you become overheated.
Wear clothes that allow the body to breathe and sweat to evaporate; this is the body's natural cooling system. Wear a hat to cover your head and face.
Get out of the sun at the first sign of heat stress. Overexertion is a major cause of heat stroke, and can be prevented by simply relaxing in the shade for a while.
Plan physical activities such as sports or hiking early in the morning or late in the day when the heat is less intense.
Avoid drinking alcohol. Alcohol dehydrates the body which promotes heat stress.
Pay attention to symptoms of heat stroke: feeling overheated; little or no sweat; rapid or very slow pulse; dry, flushed skin; confusion; dilated pupils; and convulsions.
If you exhibit signs of heat exhaustion, seek medical attention immediately.

Never leave small children or pets unattended in vehicles or other enclosed areas.

Ticks and Lyme Disease
Ticks are especially numerous in LBL. Their bites are irritating and sometimes painful, and there is also a risk of disease. The Deer tick often carries Lyme disease, the most common tick-borne disease in North America. Transmitted through the bite of an infected tick, symptoms of Lyme disease include fever, headache, fatigue, depression, and a characteristic "bulls eye" circular skin rash. When left untreated, symptoms may worsen, involving the joints, heart, and central nervous system. Infections are usually easily treatable with a round of antibiotics, but serious or delayed cases can be very difficult to treat, sometimes resulting in what is called "chronic Lyme disease." Another common tick-borne disease is Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, carried by the Lone Star Tick.

Weather tends to have a great effect on tick population. After a mild winter, populations are especially high with adult ticks that have survived the winter. Ticks will attach themselves to any warm-blooded host, hiding in trees and bushes until someone walks by. They will feed on blood until they are full, which usually takes between 6 and 13 days, and then drop off the host and lay eggs. The eggs produce larvae, or tiny seed ticks, that are almost impossible to see with the naked eye. These larvae will feed just as adult ticks do. Tick bites and diseases may affect pets, livestock, and humans.

Prevention and Treatment
Ticks hide in areas that are well traveled, such as animal paths, hiking trails and campsites in tall grasses, trees, and bushes. Avoiding these areas as much as possible is the best way to prevent picking up ticks. If you are in an area where ticks are heavily populated, using tick repellant with DEET is very effective. Tying or tucking in your pant legs and shirt, or wearing light colored clothing, makes it easier to spot ticks and prevent them from attaching to your skin.

After a tick embeds itself in the skin, the best way to get it out is with tweezers. Grabbing close to the tick's head and pulling straight up is usually most effective; be careful not to break off the head while it is still embedded in the skin. Removing a tick within 36 hours of the bite will lower the chance of disease transmission. It may be a good idea to keep the tick in rubbing alcohol for a few weeks after removing it, so in the event of disease transmission, a physician can identify the type of tick and what disease it might be carrying. If the bite looks suspicious or does not heal, see a physician.

Poison Ivy
Poison ivy flourishes in this region and contains natural oil called urushiol that often triggers a painful, itchy allergic reaction. This reaction can be caused by direct contact with the plant containing the oil, or contact with anything that has urushiol on it, such as clothes or pets. Urushiol that has become airborne (occurs when the host plant is burned) can trigger a reaction in people that are highly sensitive. Being able to identify and avoid these poisonous plants is the best way to prevent a reaction.

Identification:
In this region, poison ivy typically grows as a tree-hugging vine or as a ground-hovering plant and contains three leaflets. Sometimes poison ivy can be difficult to identify, since it looks similar to other weeds. The best way to identify it is by its three leaflets. The idiom, "leaves of three, let them be," can be a good way to distinguish the poisonous from the non-poisonous.
What to do if you have an allergic reaction:
Reactions to urushiol are fairly easy to diagnose. Most people typically develop a painful, itchy rash, usually in clusters, containing red bumps and swelling. Skin reactions to urushiol typically do not occur on initial contact; sensitivity usually develops with repeated exposure. For mild reactions, oatmeal baths can soothe the skin and help with discomfort. For more serious reactions, it may be necessary to see a doctor for prescription medication. Calamine lotion or special soaps are commonly used to treat reactions to uroshiol.

Water Safety

Water sports are a popular pastime on Kentucky and Barkley lakes. Make your visit to our lakes a safe one by following these safety tips:

State and federal laws require that there are enough life jackets on board any watercraft for every person, and children under the age of 12 must wear a life jacket at all times in an open part of a moving boat. Keeping plenty of flotation devices on board reduces the likelihood of drowning. The U.S. Coast Guard estimates that 80 percent of boating fatalities could have been prevented with the use of a life jacket.
Make sure you know how to swim before getting on the water, even in a boat. If someone with you does not know how to swim, make sure you know where they are at all times.
Never swim or operate watercraft while under the influence of alcohol. Drinking alcohol increases the likelihood of drowning and boating accidents.
Be respectful of others on the lake. Watch for swimmers and other boats, and be aware of designated "No Wake" areas.
Only boat during daylight hours. Many boats and personal watercraft do not have adequate lights equipped, and visibility on the water becomes very low at night.
Be familiar with all navigation rules and Kentucky and Tennessee boating laws BEFORE getting on the water.
Watch out for shallow areas. Kentucky and Barkley lakes are man-made and water depth varies in different areas. Use caution when diving or swimming.
Make sure your boat or personal watercraft is operating correctly, and use caution when refueling. Be familiar with fueling procedures at each marina. Improper or careless fueling can cause an oil spill, resulting in a risk of fire or explosion. Ventilate after fueling. Open hatches, run the blower, and smell for gasoline fumes in the fuel and engine areas before starting your engine.
Avoid swimming at boat ramps and marinas. Boats launching and returning may not see you.
Use extreme caution when jumping into the water from cliffs or other elevated ledges. Kentucky Lake's rock quarry is popular among boaters during the summer, and although cliff diving looks fun, there is a high risk for injury or fatality. When jumping off a ledge of 20 feet, your body travels approximately 25 miles per hour, and landing even slightly off center can cause spinal injuries or concussions. There are no lifeguards, and we strongly discourage jumping and diving at the rock quarry.
Be weather wise. Sudden shifts in wind, lightning, and choppy water can mean a storm is approaching.
Don't overload your boat. Too much weight can be hazardous even with flotation devices on board. Capsizing and falling overboard account for 70 percent of boating fatalities.
When boarding or changing seats, stay low and near the center of a small boat. Smaller boats can capsize easily when weight is not properly distributed.

Tips from the United Safe Boating Institute:
Items you must have aboard:

Life jackets (one for every person on board)
Fire extinguishers (at least one B-1 U.S. Coast Guard approved portable fire extinguisher)
Ventilation (at least two ventilator ducts for proper and efficient ventilation)
Sound producing devices (any device capable of making an "efficient sound signal" (audible for 1/2 mile)
Backfire flame arrester (one U.S. Coast Guard SAE or UL approved device on each carburetor of all gasoline engines installed after April 25, 1940)

Be familiar with first aid emergency procedures, navigation on the water, and boat operating rules. It is highly recommended to take a boating course: the United Safe Boating Institute states that the majority of people who were involved in fatal boating accidents never took a boating course.

Boating is a great way to relax and unwind. If you follow appropriate rules, procedures, and safety precautions, you can ensure that your boating experience is fun, relaxing, and enjoyable. Remember that as the operator of a boat, you are in command of the safety of your passengers and other boaters around you.

Camping and Trail Safety

The best way to enhance your camping experience is to ensure you are fully prepared in advance. Knowledge of the area, weather, terrain, regulations, and a bit of common sense can ensure you a safe trip.

LBL is a refuge for wild animals that can potentially be dangerous. Wild animals can be upset by human presence and can unexpectedly become aggressive. Do not give them a reason to attack. Keep your distance and respect their natural habitat.

Camping and Trail Safety

It is best to arrive at your campsite during daylight hours with enough time before sunset to familiarize yourself with the entire site and set up camp.
Check your campsite thoroughly for any broken glass, sharp objects, branches that have fallen or are hanging, and other potentially hazardous materials.
Check the contour of the land at your campsite and potential trouble due to rain or hazardous weather. Areas that may flood or become extremely muddy could be hazardous.
Fire is of prime concern at the campsite.
Make sure there is a designated fire ring for campfires. When a fire is lit at the campsite, be sure that someone is there to watch it at all times.
Do not leave your campfire unattended, even for a short hike.
Keep water nearby for emergencies.
Be sure to use water and soil when putting our your campfire, and be certain the fire is completely out and cool to the touch.
Embers buried within the pile of ashes could re-ignite.
Be very careful with gas canisters, keeping them upright at all times.
Keep them outside in a well ventilated area and check for leakage by putting soapy liquid on all connections.
Turn off when not in use.
Never install or remove propane cylinders while stove is lit, near flames, other ignition sources, or while stove is hot to the touch.
Use a funnel to fill tanks in order to avoid spills.
Do not operate stoves, grills, or fuel containers around other heat sources, such as campfires. They should be operated in open, well ventilated areas, never in a tent or other confined area.
Keep your campfire to a minimum.
No bonfires!
Dispose of trash in designated trash and recycling bins.
Be respectful of other campers; return your campsite to the condition in which you found it.

Trail Safety

Exercise the same caution on the trail as you would anywhere else.

On some isolated trails, help may be far away. On these trails, a hiking companion is highly recommended.
Traveling alone is not recommended; make sure a companion is with you at all times in case of an emergency. Tell someone where you are going, when you expect to return, and how many people are in your group. Make sure someone outside of your party has your emergency contact information. Trailnote.com is a good source to ensure someone is notified in the event that you do not return on time. We also recommend notifying staff at North Welcome Station, South Welcome Station, or Golden Pond Visitor Center of your whereabouts if visiting during business hours.
If you do travel alone, pay attention to your surroundings and the people you meet on the trail. Be alert and project an aura of confidence.
Watch your footing when walking across wet, narrow, or slippery areas. Trees, rocks, and bushes are not always reliable and may not hold you. Stay on developed trails or dry, solid ground. Always watch for holes in the ground; many injuries occur from stepping into a hole and twisting or breaking an ankle.
Being in good physical condition gives you an advantage on the trails. Set a comfortable pace for yourself and your group.
Wear appropriate clothing for weather and trail conditions. Keep potential hazards in mind such as weather, illness, ticks, and insects.
Be aware of weather conditions in your area. Weather in this region can change very quickly, so know what to do in the event of a thunderstorm, tornado, heavy rain, or strong winds. Know the signs of approaching weather conditions, and be aware of potential illnesses such as hypothermia and heat exhaustion. Even in the summer, strong wind and rain can result in hypothermia; make sure you have dry clothes and shelter nearby.
Learn basic first aid so you know how to identify and treat certain injuries and illnesses.
Carry a first aid kit with you. Be able to identify the symptoms of heat exhaustion, heat stroke, hypothermia, and dehydration, and know how to treat them.
Travel during the day. Traveling at night often results in injuries from falls. It is also easy to get lost in the forest at night. If you have to leave camp after dark, only travel in areas you have seen in daylight, travel with a friend, and always use a good flashlight.
Judgment, agility, and balance are reduced by alcohol consumption. Please be responsible when you camp.
Lake water is not drinking water! No matter how clean the water may look, it may harbor bacteria that can cause serious infection. Pack your own drinking water or purify water before drinking.

During Hunting Season:

Hikers and campers should wear at least one article of hunter orange clothing at all times. From a distance, hunters may mistake you for a wild animal.
If you have pets, keep an article of orange material on them as well.
Avoid wearing white or tan during deer season, as hunters may mistake you for a white-tail deer, the most heavily populated wild animal in LBL.
Get a Turkey Hunt Information Sheet for safety.

Plants and wildlife on the trail:
Watch out for poison ivy on the trails by knowing how to identify it. Be aware of venomous snakes and other wild animals. Ticks, chiggers, and mosquitoes are densely populated during the summer in LBL and can carry harmful diseases such as Lyme disease. Wear long sleeves and pants tucked into your hiking boots to prevent getting bitten. Tick spray is strongly recommended while camping or hiking from March 15 to October 15. For more information on ticks click HERE.

If you get lost:

Keep a trail map with you to help get your bearings. It may be a good idea to back track if you remember the direction you came from. Always pay close attention to your surroundings and landmarks.
Stay calm; panicking will only get you more disoriented.
Stay on developed trails; trust your map and compass, and do not walk aimlessly.
If it is after nightfall, if you are injured, or if you become exhausted, staying put is better than wandering around when you are lost.
Try to find a developed trail and follow it until you find a road or facility.

Hunting Safety

Tell someone where you will be hunting and when you will return.
Avoid hunting alone. If you do hunt alone, use extra caution and hunt in familiar areas.
ALWAYS wear an article of hunter orange clothing, such as a vest or jacket, while hunting.
Dress properly and protect yourself against weather conditions. Take preventive measures to avoid hypothermia. Check the weather forecast before hunting.
IDENTIFY your target before shooting. There are many other visitors in the area that, from a glance, may appear to be an animal.
Be aware of Kentucky and Tennessee hunting regulations, approved hunting seasons, and quota hunts.

Hypothermia is the number one killer of outdoor recreationists. Know how to identify symptoms and how to treat them. Always wear plenty of layers to keep warm, and change into dry clothes immediately if your clothing gets wet.

Outdoors Tips | Deer Season Safety

Be wary of permanent tree stands made from plywood and pine 2x4s. It is unwise to trust these types of tree stands without checking their structural integrity ahead of time. Falling limbs, wind, and moisture weaken permanent tree stands over time and make them unsafe.
Always wear a safety harness when hunting from a tree stand. Each season, hunters get injured, some seriously, when they fall asleep and take a dive off their tree stands, or slip and fall when climbing in or out of the tree.
Wear hunter orange. A hat and vest (or coat) that covers the chest and back area in solid orange is required by law. Orange camouflage is not legal. Hunter orange must also be worn by anyone accompanying a firearms deer hunter.
Be sure of your target before you put your finger on the trigger. Most fatalities are the result of mistaken-for-game accidents.
Don't trespass on your neighbor, and if you see an unfamiliar hunter in your area, escort him (or her) to your property boundary. Never wave to get another hunter's attention, speak loudly in a clear voice.
Never cross a fence or climb a tree with a loaded rifle. Use a tow rope to pull your rifle up and down from your tree stand.
Be careful when dragging out your deer. Each year, hunters die from heart attacks as a result of overexertion. Get help if you can't handle the chore by yourself. Go slow and take your time.
Tell someone where you are hunting and when you expect to be home if you are hunting alone. Carrying a cell phone is a good safety precaution if you are hunting alone.
Never carry a loaded rifle in your truck or car, and be sure to unload your rifle when you get back to camp or when you stop hunting for the day. Assume that every rifle in camp is loaded unless the action is open and you can see that it's safe to handle.

Fire Safety

Fire safety is of prime concern during your visit at LBL. Fires can easily get out of control and spread. During late summer, it becomes even more likely for a forest fire to occur. Simply following a few safety tips can prevent the possibility of a wildfire.

Make sure there is a designated fire ring for campfires at your campsite. When a fire is lit at the campsite, be sure someone is there to watch it at all times.
Do not leave your campfire unattended, even for a short hike.
Keep water nearby for emergencies.
Be sure to use water and soil when putting our your campfire, and be certain that the fire is completely out and cool to the touch.
Embers buried within the pile of ashes could re-ignite.
Be very careful with gas canisters, keeping them upright at all times. Keep them outside in a well ventilated area and check for leakage by putting soap liquid on all connections.
Turn off canisters when not in use.
Never install or remove propane cylinders while stove is lit, near flames, near other ignition sources, or while stove is hot to the touch.
Use a funnel to fill tanks in order to avoid spills.
Do not operate stoves, grills, or fuel containers around other heat sources, such as campfires. They should be operated in open, well ventilated areas, never in a tent or other confined area.
Keep your campfire to a minimum.
No bonfires!
Never throw a cigarette out your car window or in the grass. Always use an ash tray.

Campfire Safety Tips:

Keep the fire away from overhanging branches.
Use an existing fire pit surrounded with rocks; if there is not an existing pit, make sure to create a ring that will safely confine the campfire.
Remove burnable debris from near the ring and clear an area around the pit of at least 5 feet.
Keep water and a shovel nearby to put out the fire when necessary.
Stack extra firewood well away from the fire.
When leaving the campsite, make sure the fire is completely out by drowning the fire and surrounding area with water, shoveling the coals, and drowning again. Make sure the area is cold to the touch. Don't bury coals as they may re-ignite.

Other Safety Concerns

It is important to remember that your safety is your responsibility. Make sure you are always aware of your location and surroundings, and that you take necessary safety precautions to ensure your visit is a safe one.

Cell phone service is patchy and often unreliable in LBL. Do not rely on your cell phone to contact someone in the case of an emergency. Make sure before your visit that you tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return, and familiarize yourself with the facilities and their locations. Make sure someone outside of your party has your emergency contact information. Trailnote.com is a good source to ensure someone is notified in the event that you do not return on time. We also recommend notifying the staff at North Welcome Station, South Welcome Station, or Golden Pond Visitor Center of your whereabouts if you are visiting during business hours.

OHV Safety Tips

Remember that off-highway vehicles are permitted in Turkey Bay Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Area only. It is prohibited to ride an OHV on hiking, biking, or any other trails besides designated OHV trails in Turkey Bay.
Know how to properly operate your vehicle and be comfortable driving before getting on the trails.
Ride with a partner if your vehicle can accommodate a passenger.
Wear appropriate protective gear such as helmet, eye protection, and gloves.
Make certain each rider has a trail map and knows where he/she is going.
In the event your group becomes separated, designate a meeting area in a central location.
Be prepared for vehicle break downs, and know what to do if or when that happens.
Always ride within the limits of your skill and endurance; never test yourself or your vehicle beyond your abilities.
Maintain a safe following distance from other riders.
Complete a rider safety course before operating an OHV, and be sure others in your group have completed a course.
Riding an OHV requires a high degree of skill and judgment; do not use drugs or alcohol before or during operation of any vehicle.
Stay only on designated trails in the OHV Area, marked by trail markers and numbers. Riding on hiking/biking trails or developed roads is prohibited in LBL. If a trail is not marked, it is not a legal trail. Please refer to the MVUM.
Throw away trash in designated garbage and recycling bins.

Vehicle Break-Ins
When away from campsite or parking space, some visitors have experienced vehicle break-ins. Although it is fairly uncommon, follow these tips to prevent break-ins:

Lock your car. Even if you are only away from your vehicle for a few minutes, keep all doors locked.
Don't leave your travel plans or anticipated time of return on your windshield or anywhere else on your car. Instead, tell someone you know and trust where you are going and when you will return. Thieves will use the opportunity to break-in if they know you won't be returning for a while.
Don't leave valuable items in your car, such as money or jewelry. If you must keep them with you, lock them in your trunk or somewhere else out of sight. Empty and open your glove box to show that it contains no valuables.
Don't park your car with your trunk facing the woods. This provides cover for someone trying to break into your trunk. Keep your car parked in a well traveled area.
If your car has been vandalized, contact Forest Service Law Enforcement at (270) 924-2196 or (877) 861-2457.

Other People
Always be aware, alert, and cautious of your surroundings and other people. There are people that may abuse this recreation area with drug production, arson, theft, and other illegal acts. Avoiding these areas, if discovered, is the safest course of action. If you encounter another individual acting suspicious, or if you feel unsafe, it is best to stay away. Report any illegal sightings to Forest Service Law Enforcement & Investigations by calling (270) 924-2196 or (877) 861-2457 after you have relocated to a safe area. In case of emergencies, always dial 911.

Road Conditions
Please use caution while on backcountry roads. There may be farm equipment, animals, other people, or vehicles on the roads, so we ask that you practice safe recreation.

Due to road construction in LBL, we ask that you be very cautious while driving on the main roads. There may be rocks and debris in the road, and lanes will shift as they work to expand US 68/KY 80. Watch out for workers and their equipment as they will at times be in the road. Reduced speed limits are in effect throughout the construction areas. Obey posted speed limits at all times.

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Hazardous Weather

Wildlife Dangers

Health Hazards

Water Safety

Camping and Trail Safety

Hunting Safety

Fire Safety

Other Safety Concerns