Safety Issues
Use of the James Reserve, like any wild and natural area, may involve
some risks. The Regents
of the University of California will not accept any liability for accidents
which might occur on
or near the University property. Your use of the James Reserve is done strictly
at your own
risk! You can avoid potential problems by being aware of the following possible
risks.
1) Never hike alone, always work with at
least one other person and make sure that your
instructor knows where you are going and when to expect you back.
2) Rattlesnakes are common and particularly
quiet, so please be alert. They will bite you if you
step on them. In case of rattlesnake bite remain calm, and find someone
who can drive a vehicle.
Do not attempt first aid such as snakebite kits, constriction tourniquets,
or ice pack. The latest
information we have claims that doing nothing other than getting to a hospital
is the best
treatment. Do not kill a snake even if it bites you. The hospital does not
need the animal in order
to administer anti-venom or other treatments.
3) The nearest paramedic is 7 miles south
on Highway 243 in Pine Cove. There is a telephone in
the Trailfinder Lodge. The nearest pay telephone is 2 1/2 miles south from
Lake Fulmor on
Highway 243 at the Lawler Lodge County Park facility. Dial 911 for all emergency
requests
(medical, fire, criminal).
4) Mountain Lions are common in this mountain
range. If you encounter a cat, and it is not acting
aggressive, merely leave it alone. If it is acting aggressive, make sure
you stand up straight,
continue staring it in the eyes, and make lots of noise. Do not run or crouch.
If injured by any
wildlife, make sure that you can identify what it was and inform the appropriate
medical
personnel.
5) If you smell or see smoke while working
outdoors, please return to the Reserve and report it to
the staff member, or call 911 and report it to the authorities.
6) Swimming in Lake Fulmor is done strictly
at your own risk. There are no lifeguards, and there
may be broken glass and fishing lines under water.
7) Do not handle rodents, they may carry
bubonic plague. Exposure to rodent saliva, urine, blood
or feces may lead to potential infection from Hanta virus. Ticks in this
mountain range are known
to carry Lyme disease.
8) If you are in the field and hear the emergency
siren please return immediately to the Trailfinders
for further instruction.
9) The Reserve’s Emergency Plan is located on the bulletin
board in the Trailfinders kitchen area.
This plan provides procedures for fire, medical
and earthquake emergencies.
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