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Staying Safe During Winter Hikes Days Are Cold And Short

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2 months ago

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Winter days are short and cold, and winter nights are long and even colder. With the sun setting just after 4:00 p.m. this time of year, it’s very important to plan your hike accordingly, so you’re not racing the sun to get to shelter.

Here are some tips to prevent getting lost in the woods and stuck in the dark:

  • Rather than using your cell phone flashlight, always bring a headlamp or flashlight (preferably two, with extra batteries).
  • Learn to use a topographic map, GPS, and compass, and carry them with you. Many people get lost because they don’t trust the readings on their compass. GPS units have become very affordable and can be extremely useful; however, they only aid in navigation and must be used with a compass and map. Knowing your GPS coordinates may be of little help if you cannot figure out which way and how far you need to walk to reach safety.
  • Pick out landmarks that are easy to find at the end of the day. For example, if you hunt or hike south of a road that runs east-west, then you know that by walking north, you will eventually come to the road. Keep these kinds of landmarks in mind before and during your trip, especially when light is dwindling toward the end of the day.

For more info on how to avoid getting stranded or what to do if you are, visit DEC’s Lost In The Woods webpage.

DEC’s Hike Smart NY can also help you prepare with a list of 10 essentials, guidance on what to wear, and tips for planning your next hiking trip with safety and sustainability in mind.

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Supervisor George Hoehmann Talks Construction At New Site For “Chick-fil-A” In Nanuet

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4 hours ago

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April 2, 2025

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Check out News 12 Hudson Valley’s interview with Supervisor George Hoehmann discussing the construction of the brand-new Chick-fil-A opening later this year in #Nanuet!

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Government

Rockland County Department of Consumer Protection is Warning Residents About a Resurfacing Scam

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2 days ago

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March 31, 2025

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Recent reports from local businesses and residents indicate that scammers are posing as legitimate contracting companies, falsely claiming urgent structural issues to convince homeowners to sign expensive contracts for unnecessary repairs.

In one instance, scammers impersonated a reputable roofing company, Gikas Roofing, and tricked a homeowner into signing a $78,000 contract for fraudulent roof repairs. A similar case involved an elderly woman who paid $60,000 for a roof replacement she didn’t need—only for the scammers to disappear after causing damage to her home.

“These types of scams follow a familiar pattern, with unlicensed contractors using scare tactics to rush homeowners into making costly decisions,” said Rockland County Consumer Protection Director Kimberly Von Ronn. “Our department successfully impounded a vehicle and is working closely with the company being impersonated, along with Orangetown Building and Police Departments, but we urge families to be vigilant.”

Always remember to:

  • Ask for proof of a Rockland County license and insurance. A New Jersey license does not qualify in Rockland County.
  • Do not make immediate decisions under pressure. Take time to research and compare contractors.
  • Never pay in full upfront. Legitimate contractors will provide a written contract and schedule reasonable payments.
  • If approached by an unsolicited contractor, contact Rockland County Consumer Protection immediately.

If you suspect a scam, contact the Rockland County Department of Consumer Protection at [email protected] or 845-364-3901.

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