Safety Guidelines

1. Introduction

1.1 Purpose of These Guidelines

These Safety Guidelines provide essential information to help you:

• Assess risks before visiting locations
• Prepare appropriately for different types of adventures
• Recognize and respond to potential hazards
• Protect yourself, others, and the environment
• Know what to do in emergency situations
• Make responsible decisions about exploration

1.2 These Are Guidelines, Not Guarantees

While we provide safety information, please understand:

• These guidelines cannot cover every possible situation
• Following these guidelines does not eliminate all risks
• You are responsible for your own safety decisions
• Conditions change - what was safe yesterday may not be safe today
• Your experience level and abilities matter

1.3 When in Doubt, Don't

The most important safety rule: If something doesn't feel right, don't do it. It's always okay to:

• Turn back or change plans
• Skip a location that seems unsafe
• Wait for better conditions
• Ask for help or guidance
• Prioritize safety over exploration

2. Your Responsibility

2.1 You Are Responsible for Your Safety

By using Spotz, you acknowledge and accept that:

• You assume all risks associated with visiting locations found on Spotz
• You are responsible for assessing whether a location is safe for you
• You must evaluate your own skills, fitness, and preparedness
• Spotz is not liable for injuries, accidents, or incidents that occur while visiting locations
• Information may be outdated - always verify current conditions

2.2 Research Before You Go

Don't rely solely on Spotz. Do your own research:

• Check official websites for hours, fees, and restrictions
• Read multiple reviews and recent visitor reports
• Look up trail maps, difficulty ratings, and conditions
• Verify accessibility and facility information
• Check weather forecasts and seasonal considerations
• Research local emergency services and hospitals

2.3 Know Your Limits

Be honest about your abilities:

• Physical Fitness: Can you handle the terrain and distance?
• Experience Level: Do you have the necessary skills?
• Equipment: Do you have appropriate gear?
• Health Conditions: Any medical concerns to consider?
• Time Constraints: Do you have enough daylight/time?

3. Emergency Information

3.1 GPS Coordinates

Save or share your location:

• Enable location services on your phone
• Know how to access GPS coordinates (phone settings)
• Consider apps like What3Words for precise location sharing
• Share your location with someone before heading to remote areas

3.2 Download Offline Maps

Don't rely on cell service:

• Download maps before you go (Google Maps, AllTrails, etc.)
• Carry a physical map and compass as backup
• Know how to navigate without GPS

3.3 Emergency Contacts

Before every trip:

• Tell someone where you're going and when you'll return
• Share your planned route and location
• Set up check-in times for longer excursions
• Have ICE (In Case of Emergency) contacts in your phone

4. Before You Go: Planning & Preparation

4.1 Pre-Trip Checklist

4.2 What to Bring

Basic Essentials (Every Trip)

• Phone: Fully charged with backup battery
• Water: More than you think you'll need
• First Aid Kit: Basic supplies, any personal medications
• Map & GPS: Downloaded offline maps
• Identification: ID, emergency contact info
• Appropriate Clothing: Layers, weather-appropriate
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
• Snacks: High-energy food
• Flashlight: Or headlamp with extra batteries

Additional for Outdoor Adventures

• Proper footwear (hiking boots/shoes)
• Rain gear or poncho
• Whistle for emergency signaling
• Fire starter/matches (if camping)
• Multi-tool or knife
• Emergency shelter (space blanket)
• Insect repellent
• Bear spray (if in bear country)

4.3 Time Management

• Start Early: Allow plenty of daylight time
• Buffer Time: Plan for delays and unexpected situations
• Turnaround Time: Set a firm time to head back, regardless of progress
• Pace Yourself: Don't rush - steady and safe wins

5. Outdoor & Wilderness Safety

5.1 Trail Safety

• Know the Difficulty: Easy, moderate, or strenuous? Match it to your fitness
• Check Trail Conditions: Recent reports, closures, hazards
• Watch Your Step: Uneven terrain, roots, rocks - focus on the path
• Take Breaks: Rest regularly, especially on difficult terrain
• Descending Caution: More accidents happen going down - take your time

5.2 Getting Lost

If you realize you're lost:

• STOP: Don't keep walking randomly
• Stay Calm: Panic makes everything worse
• Stay Put: Especially if people know your route
• Signal: Use whistle (3 blasts = distress), bright clothing, mirror
• Make Noise: Call out regularly
• Stay Warm: Find or build shelter if needed
• Conserve Phone Battery: Use sparingly to call for help

5.3 Terrain Hazards

• Steep Slopes: Use caution, test footing, use hands for stability
• Loose Rocks: Test before putting full weight, warn others below you
• Slippery Surfaces: Wet rocks, moss, ice - slow down significantly
• Cliffs & Edges: Stay well back, never lean over, watch children closely
• Fallen Trees: Don't climb over if you can go around

5.4 Elevation & Altitude

At high elevations:

• Altitude sickness is real - symptoms include headache, nausea, dizziness
• Ascend gradually if possible
• Stay hydrated (even more than usual)
• Descend immediately if symptoms worsen
• UV exposure increases - use extra sun protection
• Temperature drops with elevation - bring layers

6. Urban & City Safety

6.1 Street Smarts

• Stay Aware: Keep your head up, avoid distractions
• Walk Confidently: Look like you know where you're going
• Trust Your Instincts: If an area feels unsafe, leave
• Stick to Populated Areas: Especially at night
• Know Your Route: Plan ahead, don't wander aimlessly

6.2 Personal Belongings

• Keep valuables out of sight
• Use crossbody bags rather than loose purses
• Don't flash expensive items (phones, jewelry, cameras)
• Keep wallet in front pocket, not back pocket
• Carry only what you need
• Make digital/photo copies of important documents

6.3 Public Transportation

• Stay alert and aware of surroundings
• Sit near the driver/conductor when possible
• Keep bags close and zipped
• Know your stop and have directions ready
• Avoid empty cars late at night
• Have exact change or card ready before boarding

6.4 Night Safety

• Well-Lit Routes: Stick to illuminated streets and paths
• Avoid Shortcuts: Especially through alleys or parks
• Travel in Groups: Safer together, especially at night
• Have Transportation Ready: Know how to get home safely
• Share Location: Let someone know where you are

7. Personal Security

7.1 Protecting Your Privacy

• Don't Overshare: Avoid posting real-time location updates
• Wait to Post: Share photos after you've left a location
• Limit Personal Info: Don't share home address or daily routines
• Privacy Settings: Control who sees your activity on Spotz
• Geotagging: Turn off location data in photo metadata

7.2 Meeting People from Spotz

If meeting other Spotz users:

• Public Places: Always meet in public, populated locations
• Tell Someone: Share who you're meeting and where
• Stay Sober: Keep your wits about you
• Trust Your Gut: Leave if anything feels wrong
• Have Exit Plan: Own transportation, charged phone
• Verify Identity: Video chat beforehand if possible

7.3 Solo Travel Safety

• Research destinations thoroughly
• Stay in well-reviewed, safe accommodations
• Check in regularly with family/friends
• Vary your routines to avoid predictability
• Learn basic phrases in local language
• Keep emergency contacts accessible
• Consider travel insurance

7.4 Scam Awareness

Be alert to common scams:

• Overly friendly strangers offering help
• "Too good to be true" deals or tours
• Distraction techniques (spills, asking time)
• Fake police officers requesting documents
• Broken taxi meters or excessive charges
• Street games or betting schemes

8. Weather & Conditions

8.1 Check the Forecast

Always check weather before you go:

• Current conditions and hourly forecast
• Precipitation probability
• Temperature (including "feels like")
• Wind speed and direction
• UV index
• Sunrise/sunset times
• Severe weather warnings

8.2 Extreme Heat

• Hydrate: Drink water before, during, and after
• Timing: Go early morning or late afternoon
• Shade: Take frequent breaks in shade
• Dress: Light, breathable, loose-fitting clothing
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses
• Know Signs: Heat exhaustion (dizziness, nausea) vs. heat stroke (confusion, no sweating)

8.3 Cold Weather

• Layer Up: Base layer, insulation, waterproof outer layer
• Cover Extremities: Hat, gloves, warm socks
• Stay Dry: Wet + cold = hypothermia risk
• Keep Moving: Generate body heat
• Watch for Frostbite: Numbness, white/gray skin
• Hypothermia Signs: Shivering, confusion, slurred speech

8.4 Rain & Storms

• Lightning: Get to shelter immediately, avoid trees and water
• Flash Floods: Never enter moving water, head to high ground
• Slippery Trails: Rocks and roots become treacherous
• Limited Visibility: Fog and rain reduce sightlines
• Cold + Wet: Hypothermia risk even in mild temperatures
• Turn Back: If conditions deteriorate, retreat to safety

8.5 Wind

• High winds make hiking and climbing dangerous
• Falling branches and debris risks
• Increased cold from wind chill
• Difficult to hear warnings or calls for help
• Avoid exposed ridges and peaks in high wind

9. Wildlife & Nature Safety

9.1 General Wildlife Rules

• Observe from Distance: Use binoculars or zoom lens
• Never Feed: Feeding wildlife is dangerous and illegal in many areas
• Don't Approach: Even small or seemingly docile animals
• No Flash Photography: Can startle or distress animals
• Respect Nesting Areas: Give extra space during breeding season
• Secure Food: Use bear canisters or hang food properly

9.2 Bear Safety

Prevention:

• Make noise while hiking (talk, sing, wear bear bells)
• Travel in groups
• Carry bear spray and know how to use it
• Store food properly away from camp
• Be especially alert at dawn and dusk

If You Encounter a Bear:

• Stay Calm: Don't run or scream
• Back Away Slowly: Don't turn your back
• Make Yourself Big: Raise arms, stand together
• Speak Calmly: Let bear know you're human
• If Attacked:
  • Brown/Grizzly: Play dead (face down, hands over neck)
  • Black: Fight back aggressively

9.3 Snake Safety

• Watch Your Step: Look before you step or reach
• Stay on Trails: Avoid tall grass and rocks
• Wear Boots: High boots offer protection
• If You See One: Back away slowly, give it space
• If Bitten: Stay calm, immobilize limb, seek medical help immediately
• Don't: Apply tourniquet, try to catch/kill snake, or suck venom

9.4 Insects & Ticks

• Repellent: Use EPA-registered insect repellent
• Clothing: Long sleeves, pants tucked into socks
• Light Colors: Makes ticks easier to spot
• Tick Check: Full body check after outdoor activities
• Remove Ticks: Use fine-tipped tweezers, pull straight up
• Watch for Symptoms: Bullseye rash, fever (Lyme disease)
• Bees/Wasps: Stay calm, back away slowly if near nest

9.5 Plants

• Poison Ivy/Oak/Sumac: "Leaves of three, let it be"
• Don't Touch: Unknown plants, especially berries
• If Exposed: Wash skin immediately with soap and water
• Thorns & Spines: Watch for cacti, brambles, and sharp plants
• Stinging Nettle: Avoid contact, causes temporary painful rash

10. Water Safety

10.1 Swimming Safety

• Swim with Buddy: Never swim alone
• Know Your Limits: Stay within your abilities
• Check Conditions: Currents, tides, temperature
• Lifeguards: Swim in supervised areas when possible
• No Diving: Unless you know depth and obstacles
• Stay Sober: No alcohol before or during swimming
• Watch Children: Constant, close supervision required

10.2 Ocean & Beach Safety

• Rip Currents: If caught, swim parallel to shore, then back in
• Waves: Never turn your back on the ocean
• Rocks: Slippery and dangerous, especially when wet
• Marine Life: Watch for jellyfish, stingrays (shuffle feet)
• Tide Times: Know when tide comes in/out
• Sun Protection: Extra important near water (reflection)

10.3 Rivers & Lakes

• Currents: Can be strong and invisible
• Cold Water: Hypothermia risk even in summer
• Underwater Hazards: Rocks, logs, sudden drop-offs
• Water Quality: Check for pollution, algae blooms
• Life Jackets: Always wear in boats or when paddling

10.4 Waterfalls

• Rocks near waterfalls are extremely slippery
• Strong currents can pull you under or over edge
• Hidden drop-offs and undertows
• Stay behind barriers and warning signs
• Never swim at the top of waterfalls

10.5 Water Activities

• Kayaking/Canoeing: Wear life jacket, know rescue techniques
• Paddleboarding: Use leash, start in calm water
• Snorkeling: Stay with buddy, check equipment
• Surfing: Know your skill level, respect locals and rules
• Check Weather: Wind, lightning, and storms are extra dangerous on water

11. Health Considerations

11.1 Know Your Health Status

Before strenuous activities:

• Consider your fitness level honestly
• Know any medical conditions or limitations
• Bring necessary medications and prescriptions
• Carry medical ID or alert bracelet if applicable
• Consult doctor for high-risk activities

11.2 Common Outdoor Health Issues

Dehydration

• Symptoms: Thirst, dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness, fatigue
• Prevention: Drink before thirsty, carry extra water
• Treatment: Rest in shade, drink water/electrolytes

Blisters

• Prevention: Proper footwear, moisture-wicking socks
• Early Signs: Stop and address hot spots immediately
• Treatment: Blister bandages, don't pop unless necessary

Sprains & Strains

• RICE: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation
• Know Limits: Don't push through pain
• Seek Help: For severe pain or inability to walk

Cuts & Scrapes

• Clean with water immediately
• Apply antibiotic ointment
• Cover with clean bandage
• Watch for signs of infection

11.3 Allergies

• Carry EpiPen if you have severe allergies
• Inform companions about your allergies
• Know location of nearest medical facility
• Wear medical alert identification
• Check for allergens at restaurants/cafes

11.4 Sun Safety

• Sunscreen: SPF 30+, reapply every 2 hours
• Cover Up: Long sleeves, hat, sunglasses
• Timing: Avoid peak sun hours (10am-4pm)
• Shade: Take breaks under cover
• Sunburn Treatment: Cool compress, aloe, stay hydrated

11.5 Fitness & Stamina

• Start with easier locations and build up
• Warm up before strenuous activity
• Take regular breaks
• Listen to your body - don't ignore pain
• Stay within your fitness level
• Cool down and stretch after activity

12. Respecting Property & Boundaries

12.1 Private Property

• No Trespassing: Never enter private property without permission
• Respect Signs: "No Trespassing," "Private Property," "Keep Out"
• Closed Areas: If it's closed or gated, don't enter
• Legal Consequences: Trespassing is illegal and dangerous
• Owner Rights: Property owners have right to remove trespassers

12.2 Public Lands

• Follow Rules: Each park/area has specific regulations
• Permits: Obtain required permits before visiting
• Fees: Pay entrance or parking fees
• Hours: Respect opening/closing times
• Closures: Temporary or seasonal closures for safety/conservation

12.3 Cultural & Sacred Sites

• Show Respect: These are not tourist attractions
• Follow Protocols: Dress codes, photography rules, behavior
• Sacred Spaces: Some areas may be off-limits to visitors
• Local Guidance: Listen to local community members
• Leave No Trace: Extra care in sensitive areas

12.4 Working Locations

When visiting operating businesses or venues:

• Follow business hours and policies
• Make purchases if using facilities
• Be respectful of staff and other patrons
• Keep noise levels appropriate
• Clean up after yourself

13. Environmental Responsibility

13.1 Leave No Trace Principles

1. Plan Ahead and Prepare: Know regulations, prepare for weather
2. Travel on Durable Surfaces: Stay on trails and established paths
3. Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out everything you pack in
4. Leave What You Find: Don't take rocks, plants, artifacts
5. Minimize Campfire Impacts: Use established fire rings or stoves
6. Respect Wildlife: Observe from distance, never feed
7. Be Considerate: Respect other visitors, keep noise down

13.2 Trail Etiquette

• Yielding: Hikers yield to horses, bikers yield to hikers and horses
• Uphill Priority: Those going uphill have right of way
• Single File: Step aside to let others pass
• Greet People: Friendly acknowledgment as you pass
• Control Pets: Keep dogs leashed, pick up waste

13.3 Waste Management

• Pack It In, Pack It Out: All trash, including food scraps
• Microtrash: Pick up small items (bottle caps, wrappers)
• Human Waste: Use facilities or dig catholes 6-8 inches deep, 200 feet from water
• Toilet Paper: Pack out or bury deeply
• Soap & Shampoo: Use biodegradable, 200 feet from water sources

13.4 Protecting Nature

• Don't pick flowers or plants
• Don't remove rocks, fossils, or artifacts
• Don't carve into trees or deface property
• Don't build cairns (rock stacks) or structures
• Don't create new trails or shortcuts
• Report vandalism or damage you observe

13.5 Consider Impact

Before sharing a location on Spotz:

• Will increased visitors harm the environment?
• Is the area fragile or easily damaged?
• Can the location handle more traffic?
• Are there sensitive species or habitats?
• Sometimes keeping a place secret is the right choice

14. Reporting Safety Issues

14.1 What to Report

Please report locations on Spotz that pose safety risks:

• Dangerous Conditions: Hazards, unsafe features
• Misleading Information: Incorrect difficulty ratings, missing warnings
• Accessibility Issues: Closed areas, new restrictions
• Private Property: Locations requiring trespassing
• Environmental Harm: Locations being damaged by visitors
• Illegal Activities: Locations promoting illegal behavior

14.2 How to Report

In-App:

• Navigate to the location
• Tap the three-dot menu (•••)
• Select "Report Safety Issue"
• Provide detailed description
• Include photos if helpful

Email:

• safety@spotz.app
• Include location name and URL
• Describe the safety concern
• Suggest corrective action if possible

14.3 Emergency Situations

If someone is in immediate danger:

• Call Emergency Services First: 911 (US), 112 (Europe), etc.
• Then Notify Us: Email safety@spotz.app with details
• Document: Take photos/videos if safe to do so
• Follow Up: Let us know outcome so we can update location info

14.4 Our Response

When you report a safety issue:

• We review reports within 24-48 hours
• Urgent safety issues are prioritized
• We may add warnings or remove dangerous locations
• We'll update location information as needed
• You'll receive confirmation of our action