Please note: the Safety Standards are currently being updated

Please note: the Safety Standards are currently being updated for mid-August 2026. As a result, some of the content on OPASSE may not be up to date. Contact Ask Ophea at safety@ophea.net if you would like copies of specific activity pages from the 2025-2026 year.

Procedures for Hiking/Backpacking

  • Watch the weather and know when storms develop in the local area.
  • Plan to be away from high risk areas such as peaks, ridges and higher terrain before a thunderstorm arrives.
  • Move to lower ground quickly if thunder is heard when on exposed high ground.
  • Avoid open areas that are 100 m wide or wider.
  • Look for a dry ravine or depression and spread out to reduce multiple injuries.
  • Avoid trees with large trunks if lightning strike is close.